
Class _ 

Book 

Copyright 1^°. 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSrr 






Baron Burr, 



H pla^ in ifour Hcte. 



XKHilUam X. ©'Briern 






JLiSRARYof CONSRESSi 
I Tv/o Copies Received I 

NOV ?5 J 908 

{ Ccpyriiflit tiitfy i 






— ! 



Copyright 1908 

hy 

Emma O. O'Brien. 



Review Publishing Con-'pany, 
Minneapolis, Minnesota. 



TIME, 



1 — 33 Minutes. 
2—37 " 
3—35 " 

4—28 " 



Total 133 



or 2 hrs, 13 min. 





DISPOSITION OF SCENES. 








1 


2 


3 


4 


Total 


Burr 


11 


12 


12 


6 


41 


Blen 


4 


2 


3 


1 


10 


Morgan . . . 


6 


6 


2 


4 


18 


Daviess . . . 


5 





4 


1 


10 


Graham . . 


3 


2 


G 





11 


Mrs. Blen . 


10 


5 


10 


5 


30 


Alice 


8 


8 
5 


7 
2 


G 
4 


29 


Widow B. . 


G 


17 



CHARACTERS. 

The characters are set down in the order of their en- 
trance. 

JOHN GRAHAM, of the U. S. Scout Service. 

MRS. HARMAN BLENNERHAS8ETT, the young 
wife. 

HARMAN BLENNERHASSETT, ESQ., the old hus- 
band. 

AARON BURR, with an eye for a woman and a theme. 

COL. GEORGE N. MORGAN, waitin' on the widow. 

THE WIDOW BROWN, in no great hurry for number 

two. 

HON. JOE DAVIESS, the district attorney. 
MISTRESS ALICE MORGAN, the belle of Marietta. 

MONONGAHELA PETE. 

SNAG SAWYER. ^ . „ , . . 

) Some of Burr's boatmen. 
FLAT BOAT BILL. ( 

KAINTUCK. I 



Act 1 : Lawn in fnmt of Blcnnerliassett's island home. 
In which Mr. Burr makes some enemies. 

Act 2: Sitting room in Blennerhassett's house. In 
which hearts are trumps. 

Act 3: Same as Act 2. Treats somewhat of politics, 
but more of love. 

Act 4 : Same as Act 1. A man without a country. 



ACT L 

THE SCENE: Exterior, showing Blennerhassetfs 
house R; steps leading down from door R2 E to the ground, 
Rustic chairs R and L of rustic table L; rustic bench up 
R C; in general effect the scene shoioing the well kept 
lawn of the country home of the period. (1806). DIB- 
COVERED : John Graham, the colored house servant, 
standing at table L he sets tray with decanter and glasses 
which he carries on table L; looks cautiously about; fills 
glass with wine from decanter; drinks it, dusts his shoes 
with the napkin, then wipes out the glasses. A momen- 
tary pause. 



Enter Mrs. Harman Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: (Standing top of steps R 2 E, and call- 
ing. ) John ! John Graham ! 

GRAHAM: (L) Yes'm ! 

MRS. BLEN : What are yon doing out here? 

GRAHAM : Jes' kinder'er workin' round ma'am. 

MRS. BLEN: (Coming down steps, and Xing L to C.) 
What are you doing? 

GRAHAM: Well ma'am, I bro't Massa Blennerhas- 
setfs madeira out hyah fur one ting. 

MRS. BLEN : Didn't I tell you we expect company for 
supper? 

GRAHAM : Yes'm. 

MRS. BLEN: Have you sot the table vet? 

GRAHAM : No'm. 

MRS. BLEN : Then go in and do so at once. 

GRAHAM: (Xing R slowly.) Yes'm. 

MRS. BLEN: Hurry! Our guests may arrive at any 
time. 

GRAHAM: (WUhoiif accelerating his haste.) Yes'm. 

MRS. BLEN: And tell Mr. Burr to stop poring over 



6 

that map and come out and joiu me. 
GRAHAM : Yes'm. 

Enter Barman Blennerhassctt, Esq., L. U. E. 

BLEN : Ah Margaret, were you looking for me? 

MRS. BLEN: Yes. Don't wander off in that absent 
minded way of yours husband ; recollect you must play the 
host today. 

BLEN: {Coming down L.) I haven't forgotten it; in 
fact I've just been down to the landing looking for our 
company. {Glancing at his watch.) They ought to be 
here by now. 

Exit Graham, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : They'll be here soon enough, never fear ; 
and when they come, do try and say something, Harman, 
and not make me do all the talking, as you always do. 

BLEN: {Seating himself R of tabic L.) But my dear 
wife, if we all talk there'll be no one to listen. 

MRS. BLEN: No one listens in society; there's nothing 
said worth hearing. 

BLEN : Society is not my sjjhere anyway ; I always 
make a fool of myself. 

MRS. BLEN: One more or less won't be noticed. 
{Sharply.) Don't drum on the table. 

BLEN: {Meekly.) I wasn't, my dear. 

MRS. BLEN: I thought you were; it's just as bad. 
Those things get on my nerves. 

BLEN: Don't be put out by such little things, my 
dear. 

MRS. BLEN: {Goes up.) 'Tis w^oman's fate to be 
annoyed by little things, Harman, for her life is made up 
of a grinding monotony of trifles. No wonder we age 
before you, man. {Seats herself on hench up R. C.) 

BLEN: {Rising, and Xing up over R to Mrs. Blen.) 
I fear, Margaret you're so discontented here of late that 
everything annoys you. 

MRS. BLEN: To see a man of your ability wasting 
away his best years playing the 'cello and dabbling in 
chemistry is enough to make any woman ambitious for her 
husl)and's success discontented. 



Re-enter Oraham B. 2 E. 

GRAHAM: {At top of steps R 2 E.) Massa Burr'll 
be right out ma'am. 

BLEN: {In a bantering loay.) You don't think to 
make me jealous by sending for Burr do you? {Graham 
stands R 2 E an attentive listener.) 

MRS. BLEN: No; I only wanted to talk things over 
with him again, 

BLEN: What' the use? The more we talk things over 
the more undecided I am. 

MRS. BLEN : You've dilly-dallied long enough already, 
husband, and should let Burr know at once whether or not 
you'll advance him the money to go ahead with his plans. 

Exit Graham, R 2 E. 

BLEN: {Seating himself beside Mrs. Blen.) To tell 
you the truth, Margaret, I've been so happy here in my 
seclusion from the world, free on this island to live my own 
life, in my own way, that I'm almost sorry Aaron Burr 
brought his restless worldly philosophy into our peaceful 
home. 

MRS. BLEN: I'm not. Your talents destine you for 
something better than this vegetable life; you should go 
back again into the world, Harban, and take a hand in 
the stirring events about you. 

BLEN : I hate to give up my peace and quiet here to 
go into this Mexican scheme of Burr's. 

MRS. BLEN : But think of the career that it opens 
up to you. 

BLEN : I care nothing for that; if I go into this enter- 
prise it will be on your account, and not my own. 

MRS. BLEN: Very well; I'll take the responsibility, 
for I'd have you be something more in the world than a 
simple country gentleman. 

BLEN : But in this affair of Burr's a single false step 
would land us I knoAv not where. 

MRS. BLEN : With him to manage things failure is im- 
possible. 

BLEN : Failure is always possible, even with a man of 
his ability. 

MRS. BLEN: {Looking off R.) Here's Burr now; 



8 

€ome to a decision with him one way or the other, or he'll 
think you don't know your own mind. 

BLEN : To be candid with you, Margaret, I don't. 

Enter Aaron Burr, R 2 E. 

BURR: (Standing at top of steps R 2 E.) Am I in- 
truding on this family party? 

MRIS. BLEN: (As Bleu rises.) Quite the contrary, 
Mr. Burr; we were just talking of you. (Bleu Xes over L 
to table L.) 

BURR: [Coming down steps.) Indeed? Then I am 
complimented. 

MRS. BLEN : But suppose we were speaking ill of you? 

BURR: {Sta}iding R with a boiv.) To have been 
deemed worthy of your attention is sufficient honor, 
madam. I'd rather you'd speak ill of me than not to speak 
of me at all. 

BLEN : [At table L, pouring himself a glass of wine.) 
It's nothing against ycm, sir, but I was just saying I'm as 
undecided as ever about going in with you in this expedi- 
tion against Mexico. 

BURR: [Xing L to C.) Why should you hesitate 
now" that failure is out of the question? The boats are 
built, provisions laid in, and I've drawn to my support men 
in every station of life from New York to New Orleans, 
without exciting the slightest suspicion. You've a chance 
to be my partner, sir, in an enterprise which will yield 
fortune and honor to us both. 

BLEN: {Seating himself R of table, and sipping his 
wine.) My fortune is already ample for my simple 
tastes. I've a good wife, a good home, good health; my 
books, — music, — philosophical experiments, — I'd not 
change places with an emperor. 

BURR : That of course is for you to say, sir, but, as 
I've already told you, there are others to be considered 
besides yourself. (Xing L to Blen L.) Is it not your 
duty to make your wife a duchess and give her that station 
in life which her birth and accomplishments entitle her to? 
{Lav's hand, on Blends shoulder.) 

BLEN : You know I'd do anything to make her happy. 

BURR : That would be but a fair return for the happi- 
ness she's given vou. 



BLEN : Very true, sir. Indeed we have got on so well 
together that 1 often wonder what a young, attractive 
woman like my wife can see in me. I only hope when you 
marry. Burr, your life will be as happy and unclouded as 
mine has been. 

Mils. BLEN: {Seated on bench up R C.) Enough of 
sentiment, husband; come to the point; go in with Mr. 
Burr and give up this life of peaceful stagnation. 

BLEN : For 3^our sake as well as mine I hate to take 
the risk. 

BURR : {Seating himself L of table L, and pouring him- 
self a glass of wine. ) What risk is there? Under cover of 
founding a peaceful colony of settlers along the Washita 
river, I invade Mexico, drive out the Greasers, and seize 
the country for myself and followers. 

MRS. BLEN : With the force at Burr's command it 
will be easy work to overthrow the Mexican government. 

BURR : Not only that, but the revolution once accom- 
plished, and Mexico mine, the people of this western coun- 
try, already tired of our imbecile government at Washing- 
ton, will flock to my standard. I'll add on all this country 
west of Pittsburg, and rule over an empire stretching from 
the Allegheny mountains to the Pacific Ocean. 

BLEN : I didn't know you aimed to split up these 
United States! {Rising.) Why, man alive, that's 
treason ! 

BURR: {Calmly.) If you fail — yes. Oh, I'm playing 
a royal game with fate, sir, and staking my head against a 
crown. 

BLEN : Should you lose? 

BURR: Impossible; I've laid my plans too well for 
that. My first detachment of five hundred men await me 
now down the river; and as man}' thousands more will join 
me as soon as I get a foothold on Mexican soil. {Rising.) 
I guarantee you against failure, sir. With the honor and 
fortunes of thousands of the best blood of our country. 

MRS. BLEN: Come, come, Harman, don't be faint- 
hearted. 

BURR: Don't urge him, madam, yet {to Blenner- 
hassett) having had this matter under consideration for 
some days, sir, if you don't wish to join forces with me, say 
so now, and I'll look elsewhere for a partner. 

MRS. BLEN: Consider well, husband, before you de- 



10 

cliue Burr's otter; recollect he's promised you'll be the first 
minister from the new empire to the English Court. 

BUKB: Yes, Blennerhassett, you know I've already 
put my fortune into this enterprise, and am at the end of 
my own resources. Advance me the money to see this 
aft'air througli, and make me Emperor of Mexico, and in 
return I'll make you my ambassador to England. 

BLEN : {To Mrs. Blen, Xing R to C.) Yon've always 
had the better head for business, Margiu'et; do you advise 
me to go on with this affair? 

MRS. BLEN : AVith all my heart I do. 

BLEN : Then once for all I'll be your partner in this 
venture, sir. 

BURR: {Xing R to Bleu at C.) Now wealth and 
glory; Louisiana and Mexico belong to us for the taking. 
{SJiakiiig Bleiiiierhassett\s hand.) Congratulate us both, 
madam; our fortunes are as good as made. 

MRS. BLEN : I've not a doubt of that, sir, providing 
my husband does his part instead of leaving everything to 
others. 

BLEN : I said I'd go in with Burr ; what more do you 
want? 

MRS. BLEN : To have you start to work at once ; do 
something — anything. 

B LEN : Yes ;— but what? 

BURR: Y^ou might see if you can't raise some recruits 
for us among the young fellows hereabouts. 

MRS. BLEN : To be sure. Raise some recruits. 

BLEN: {Xing R to R.) My nigger Graham's a likely 
lad; I'll find him now, and get him to enlist. 

BURR: Set about recruiting with discretion, friend 
Blennerhassett; not a word about Mexico. 

BLEN: {Going.) Of course not; I'll say I'm raising 
men to settle on land of yours along the Washita river. 

Exit Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

BURR : I owe you my thanks for persuading your hus- 
band to go in w:ith me in this Mexican enterprice. He 
would not have joined forces with me otherwise. {Burr 
kisses Mrs. BJeiinerhassett's hand.) 

MRS. BLEN: {Withdrawing her hand.) I did it 



11 

largely from a selfish motive; anything for a change from 
the dull monotony hereabouts. 

BUKR : This hum-drum life won't last much longer, 
Margaret; as a duchess and the wife of our British Ambas- 
sador you'll soon again take that place in society j'^ou're 
so well fitted to adorn. 

MRS. BLEN: Indeed I hope so, Burr. The world, 
with its ambitions, — triumphs, — disappointments, — heart- 
aches, — how I long for it all again, 

BURR: You shall enjoy it soon, that I promise you; 
with all of its triumphs, with none of its disappointments. 

MRS. B : Yet should your real intentions become known 
in Washington? 

BURR: You forget I organized that land company to 
account for my preparations, and keep up appearances in 
that quarter. Have no fear. 

MRS. BLEN : I fear not for myself, but my husband. 

BURR : Yonr husband : 

MRS. BLEN : Yes. Should your plans miscarry, he 
is ill calculated to brave the storm which is sure to follow. 

BURR: Do you think I'd enlist him in this enterprise 
were there a chance of failure? 

MRS. BLEN : And even if there was I'd have him take 
that chance, — for you. 

BURR : I assure you, Mrs. Blennerhassett — 

MRS. BLEN: {Interrupthig:) "Mrs. Blennerhassett?" 
(Rises.) How formal you are growing. 

BURR: (Rising.) I meant not to be, Margaret, but I 
must keep formal curb on my tongue, lest I am too out- 
spoken, even in my admiration for you. 

MRS. BLEN: I beg of you desist, sir; somehow of late 
your ready speeches of compliment bring with them an 
unsatisfying pain. 

BURR: Yet they used to bring but pleasure. 

MRS. BLEN: (Coming flown to R C.) Ah, yes, a 
compliment sounds sweet to wonmn, Burr, till a deeper 
feeling makes her marvellously acute to detect the false 
from the true. 

BURR: (Coming dorvn to Mrs. BJen. R C.) Here- 
after I'll speak in commonplaces. 

MRS. BLEN: Do so, if it springs from the heart. Oh 
Burr! How much I long for one unguarded, real earnest 



12 

word from you. 

BUKK: Then, to be candid, Margaret, 'tis time this 
comedy of ours came to an end. Henceforth let's be good 
friends, — nothing more. 

MRS. JJLEN : In other words, you want to be rid of me 
so you can devote yourself to Alice Morgan. 

LJ UliR : I assure you I've not gone beyond the conven- 
tional civilities with Mistress Morgan. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing L to C.) I thought you were 
quite taken witli her of late; though it's beyond me what 
you can see in her unless its because she has a rich father. 

BURR: D(m't you tliink her pretty? 

MRS. BLEN: Pretty? Why, she's positively plain. 

BURR: What matter if she is? After all beauty is 
only skin deep. 

MRS. BLEN : That's deep enough for most men. 

Enter Col. Mor</(in, the Widow Brown, L. to E. 

WIDOW B. : ( Coming down, follotved by Morgan. ) 
Here we are at last, mum; I was kinder 'feared we'd be 
late. 

MRS. BLEN: {Going up.) Quite the contrary, Mrs. 
Brown; the others have not yet arrived. {They meet, and 
shake hands up C.) 

WIDOW li. : {To Morgan.) Didn't I tell you, George 
Morgan, we'd be the first ones here. {To Mrs. Blen.) Just 
like a man; always in such a hurry. 

MORGAN: ''Hurry!" I waited for an hour, ma'aiu, 
for ye to get through with your primi)iu'. {Shakes hands 
with Mrs. Blen.) But I hope nothin' ain't happened to 
Alice and Joe; thev started 'cross the river long 'fore we 
did. 

WIDOW B. : I reckon theA- gave us the slip so's to have 
a spark together. 

MRS. BLEN: {To Burr, who has remained standing 
R. C.) You hear that, sir? {Burr eomes down.) I've 
been telling Mr, Burr all along it's no use for him to cast 
slieep's eyes in you daughter's direction, sir. 

MORGAN: Not a bit, ma'am. {Shaking hands xmth 
Burr.) Joe Daviess's got the inside track there. Burr. 



13 

Enter Graham. 

GKAHAM : {To Mrs. Bleu.) Could I see ye a minute, 
ma'am? 

MRS, BLEN: {Leaving the others standing up C, and 
coming down to Graham, who stands R.) ^Vell, what is 
it now? 

GRAHAM: {With lowered voice.) Dere ain't 'nufl o' 
dem best plates to go roun' ; one on 'em's cracked. 

MRS. BLEN : ( With lowered voice.) Put the cracked 
plate in front of me, and nobody'll notice. 

GRAHAM : And ^Martha wants to know if you want de 
chickens fried or br'iled. 

MRS. BLEN : Neither ! I told her over and over again 
I wanted them roasted. 

GRAHAM: {Going then recollecting.) I like to done 
forgot ; 'Lize she want to see you about — 

MRS. BLEN: {Inter rupiing.) Yes, yes. Tell her I'll 
be right in. 

GRAHAM: {Going.) Yes'm. 

MRS. BLEN: {Standing R, to the others who have re- 
mained up C. ) Will you excuse me for a few moments ; I 
must go in and see to things. 

Exit Graham, R 2 E. 

WIDOW B. : I didn't s'pose you ever had to lift a finger, 
ma'am, with all your servants. 

MRS. BLEN: {Going.) To the eontrary, the more 
servants, the more bother; I verily believe if I had a few 
more, I'd have to wait on myself. 

Exit Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MORGAN : You know I'm kinder worried 'bout Alice. 

WIDOW B. : Nonsense, Morgan. I tell ye Joe's got 
her in some quiet place a tryin' to spoon her. 

MORGAN : ( Going up to L C. ) Guess I'll go down to 
the river anyhow, and see if I can see 'em. 

BURR: {Folloidng Morgan up to L C.) Let me go, 
sir. 

MORGAN : I don't want to put you to that bother. 

BURR : No bother at all, I assure you. 



14 

MOllGAX: Tlieu we'll all go; come on Widder. 

WIDOW B. : ( Up C. ) Come back here, Morgan, and 
let him go alone; can't you see he's dyin' to spoil their 
sparkin'? 

lUJKK : {(roiiig.) If I do I fear Master Daviess won't 
be overly glad to see me. 

EMt Burr, L U E. 

WIDOW B.: {X'lHij u[) over R to bench B C) D'ye 
know, Morgan, I think Burr's kinder takin' a shine to 
Alice. 

MOBGON : 'Twon't do him much good if he has. 

M'IDOW B. : Perhaps she'll take a shine to him. [Scats 
herself on, bench R C.) 

:MOBaAN : No danger. {Xin<j R to Widow B., R. C\) 
Alice is a g )in' to marry Joe Daviess. He asked me yester- 
day if he couldn't wait on her. 

AVIDOW B. : I s'pose you told him yes, to go ahead. 

MORGAN: {SciUiny himself beside Widow B.) In 
course. Joe's the likeliest young fellow 'round here. The 
very man I'd pick out for my darter. 

WIDOW B. : Has he said anything to her about it 
yet? 

MORGAN: I reckon not; why? 

WIDOW B. : Nothin' much; only 'pears to me Joe's 
goin' 'bout this thing Avrong end to; I'd be sure of the gal 
'fore I spoke to her father. 

MORGAN: Why so, widder? 

A^'IDOW B. : He may be a-countin' his chickens 'fore 
they're hatched. Suppos'n' after all this palaverin" Alice 
won't have him? 

MORGAN : She'll have him fast enough. There ain't 
a gal in these parts wouldn't jump at the chance to marry 
such a risin' smart 3'^oung feller as Joe Daviess. 

WIDOW B. : I don't know 'bout that; ye can't count 
on a woman till ye have her inside a weddin' ring, — ^and 
sometimes not even then. 

MORGAN: Don't you worry, ma'am; Joe'll marry 
Alice and take her home with him. Then I'll be left nil 
alone, so you won't have no more excuse for not changin' 
your name to mine. (Attempts to fondle her.) 

WIDOW B. : (Repulsing Morr/nn.) Plenty of time for 



15 

that sort of thing, Morgan. {Risiny.) I've told you all 
along I wouldn't marry you till Alice is married ott", and I 
won't. We don't get along any too well together now, she's 
so afraid you're after me for number two. 

MOllGAN: {RWuuj.) That's nothin' 'gainst you, 
ma'am. You couldn't expect au}^ woman to take her 
mother's place, — the sainted angel. 

WIDOW 1j. : {Coniiiiy down to R C.) Yes, she made 
you a martyr, and now you make her a saint. 

MORGAN : My wife was the best woman that ever 
lived. {Recollecting himself, and coming down to Widow 
Brown standing R (J. ) That is, one of the best. 

WIDOW B. : If you thought so much of her, what do 
you want to get married again for? 

MORGAN: Arter Alice is married it'll be kinder lone- 
some living all alone; don't you think so? 

WIDOW B. : Oh, I don't know; I've managed to stand 
it ever since Brown was took off witli the pleurisy, the year 
arter we come out here from Vermont. 

MORGAN: Well, besides that, I'm gettin' 'long in 
years and need a good, sensil)le woman to look after me in 
my old age. (Attempts to fondle her.) 

WIDOW B. : {Repulsing him, and Xing R to R.) 
'Pears to me you don't Avant a wife, you want a nurse! 

E enter Joseph Hamiltmi Damess, L U E. 

MORGAN: {R C.) IleUo, Joe! Where's Alice. 

DAVIESS: {Coming down L; in a huff.) She's so 
taken up with Burr I came away and left 'em together. 
{Seats himself L of table L, and pours out glass of ivine.) 

WIDOW B. : {R.) Fust thing ye know Burr'U cut ye 
out, and serve you right if he did. 

MORGAN : ^ Don't you fret 'bout that, Joe. 

DAVIESS : I hardly thouglit Alice would desert me for 
the first stranger that comes ahmg. 

WIDOW B.: Why not? Gals like a change same as 
you men do, and there ain't been a stranger in these parts 
before in two years. 

Enter Graham, R 2 E. 

GRAHAM : {Standing lx\ to Morgan R C.) 'Sense me, 



16 

sail ! Massa Blennerlia«sett"s coiupliiiieuts, sah, and he 
wants to know if you wou't come iu and jine him in a glass 
ob ole Madeira. 

MORGON : No. [X'uig R toward house.) But I don't 
mind joinin' him in a drap of something stronger. 

^^'IDOW B. : {iStanding II. ) Sakes alive, George Mor- 
gan ! What would the church folks say? 

MORGAN: (Coughing.) A bit of grog might stop 
my cough; it was pretty chilly cross'n' the river, and I'm 
afeard 1 took cold. {Goes in, foUowed hy Widow Brown.) 

AVIDOW B. : A good dose of rhubarb and molasses 'd 
do you a heap more good. 

Exeunt Col. Morgan, Widow Broivii, R 2 E. 

GRAHAM: {^^ing L to Dariess L.) You am Massa 
Dabiess, de Distreect Att'0'3^, ain't ye, sah? 

DAVIESS: Yes. Why? 

GRAHAM: 'Cause I Avanted to confabulate with ye, 
sah, and dis am de fust chance I'se had. {At table L, 
pouring out glass of wine.) Your healf, Massa Dabiess. 

DAVIESS: {Rising hastily, and seizing Graham by 
the collar. ) AYhat do you mean ! I'll have you whipped 
for your impudence, nigger! 

GRAHAM: {^haliing off Daviess, and dropping his 
dialect.) "Nigger! No! My skin's as white as yours. 
{Pulls up coat sleeve, showing his white arm.) I'm John 
Graham of the United States Secret Service. 

DAVIESS : How did you manage to get in here as 
Blennerhassett's servant? 

GRAHAM: Easy enough. I bribed his nigger to quit 
the old man's service, and recommend me for the place. 

DAVIESS: {Re-seatinq himself L of table L.) What 
for? 

GRAHAM : To keep watch on Aaron Burr. As Blen- 
nerhassett's nigger I can be around and have my eye on 
him all the time without exciting suspicion. 

DAVIESS: You mean you're spring on him? 

GRAHAIM: {Seating himself R of table.) Since you 
put it that way, yes. T was sent out here from Washington 
by President Jefferson himself to see what Rnrr was \w to, 
and I'll need your help before I'm through with this job. 

DAVIESS : As an official of the government I'm bound 



17 

to help you if he runs counter to the law, but as I under- 
stand it he is simply organizing a company to settle on the 
lands along the Washita river. 

GRAHAM : Ko ! All that is but a blind to cover his 
real intentions. J>urr plans to seize Mexico, add on these 
western states, and rule over this whole country west of 
the Alleghenies. 

DAVIESS : Why that is treason. Granted he's as un- 
scrupulous and dangerous a man as there is in the country, 
but the thing's impossible. 

GRAHAM : On the contrary, it's simple enough. Un- 
der cover of getting together a peaceful colony of settlers, 
Burr has already raised supplies and recruits. Wlien his 
preparations are completed he leads an army into Mexico, 
and the rest is easy. 

DAVIESS : But all that takes money, and he's a bank- 
rupt beyond redemption. 

GRAHAM : But Blennerhassett isn't, and his wife and 
Burr have led the old man on, till he's backed this expedi- 
tion with his fortune. 

DAVIESS : How do you know Blennerhassett has a 
hand in this? 

GRAHAM : Because he just asked me to go along, and 
offered me a dollar for every man I can raise to settle on 
that Washita land. 

DAVIESS : We must have better evidence than that 
before making a move in this affair. Have you searched 
through Burr's baggage and things? 

GRAHAM : Yes, that's the first thing I did. 

DAVIESS : And you found nothing? 

GRAHAM : Of course not ; he's too old a hand to be 
caught that way. 

DAVIESS : Then we can do nothing as yet. 

GRAHAM: No, ours is a waiting game; we must keep 
close watch on Burr till lie does something to compromise 
himself, before we can arrest him. {Talcpfi official looking 
paper stamped tcith seaU from hi. 9 pocket and hands it to 
DarifSfi.) Here's my authority. 

DAVIESS : Why, this is a proclamation from the presi- 
dent declaring Aaron Burr a conspirator agains the United 
States. 

GRAHAM : Yes, aurl calling on you to arrest all per- 
sons joining his expedition. 



18 

DAVIESS : I uuglit to warn Blennerhassett before he 
puts himself in a hobble. {Returns paper to Graham, who 
puts it in his pocket. ) 

GKAHAM: And have him put Burr on his guard? 
No! The old man must take his chances along with the 
rest ; he'll have lots of company. 

DAVIESS: What kind? 

GRAHAM : All kinds ; the rich man, poor man, beggar 
man, thief. 

DAVIESS : It's clear Burr knows how to bait his hook 
to catch a man. 

GRAHAM: {Rising.) Or for the matter of that a 
woman, either. {Xes over R to R.) But I must be get- 
ting back to work, or I'll be discharged. 

DAVIESS: I'll see vou again. 

GRAHAM: Certainly. You'd better come over every 
day on some excuse or other, so I can keep you posted on 
what's going on, and we can act together when the time 
comes. 

Enter Burr, Mistress Alice Morgan, L U E. 

GRAHAM: {Resuming negro dialect.) Am dere any- 
thing else ye want, suh? 

DAVIESS : No ; nothing more. ( Graham goes up steps 
R 2 E, and remains standing at top of steps an interested 
onlooker.) 

ALICE: {With Burr, Xing up over R to tench R C.) 
Ah, here you are, Joe; we've been looking everywhere for 
•you. 

DAVIES: {Rising.) I dare say; everywhere, except 
w^here you knew I'd be found. 

BURR: {To Alice.) Our learned friend the Honor- 
able District Attorney is inclined to be sarcastic. {Alice 
seats herself on bench R C.) 

DAVIESS: It seems to me you are rather sarcastic, 
too, sir, to give me my title, when I've yet to have a case in 
court. 

BURR: Your time will come. {Sweats himself beside 
Alice.) This western country is most too young yet to af- 
ford the luxury of going to law. ( Burr devotes himself to 
Alice, and they enter into an animated conversation to- 
gether.) 



19 



Eijeit G-raham, R 2 E. 



DAVIESS: {After momentary pause; Xing R to C; to 
Alice.) Don't you think we'd better go in, Alice, and pay 
our respects to the Blennerhassetts? 

ALICE : {Making as if to rise. ) Perhaps we had. 

BURR: And leave me here alone? 

ALICE : I couldn't think of doing that; you go ahead, 
Joe; I'll be right in. 

DAVIESS: {In a huff; Xing to R.) Sir, if you're 
afraid of being left alone, sir, I'll send some one out to 
keep 3^ou company. 

BURR : Don't bother; instead of sending some one out, 
just take yourself in. 

ALICE: {Seated with Burr on bench up R G.) Per- 
haps, after all, we'd better go in, too. 

BURR : And why, charming Mistress Alice? 

ALICE: What will the others say of our sitting out 
here? 

BURR: Nothing; what could they say? 

ALICE : That outsetting widow, Mrs. Brown, would say 
anything that's mean about me. 

BURR : She might say with perfect truth that I find 
your society most agreeable. 

ALICE : Ah, sir, I fear you are more complimentary 
than candid. 

BURR : I must seem complimentary even when I'm 
candid with you. Mistress Alice; the terms are synonomous 
in your case. 

ALICE : La, Mr. Burr ! You say such nice things, I 
don't wonder all the women like you. 

BURR : And do you like me well enough to give me 
your company at supper tonight? 

ALICE : Yes, were I free to choose; but I fear Daviess, 
having brought me over, has the first claim on me. 

BURR : You may have pity on me yet and reconsider. 
I'll not take a woman's first refusal as final. 

Enter Monongahela Pete, L U E. 

PETE : ( Up L. ) Any orders, Cap? 
BURR : No, nothing just now, Pete. 
PETE : All right. Cap. 



20 



Ejoit Pete, LTJ E. 



ALICE: Who was that ill favored fellow? 
BURR : The mate of my flatboat ; he reports to me every 
day for orders. 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : I hope I'm not in the way? 

ALICE: {Rising, with Burr, and coming down to Mrs. 
Blen.) To the contrary, Margaret; I was just going to 
find you and pay my respects. 

MRS. BLEN: There was no hurry about it; I quite 
understand you were more agreeably engaged. {They 
meet R and kiss. ) 

BURR: {Up R C, to Mrs. Blen.) How could one 
spend the time more agreeably than in your society, 
madam? 

MRS. BLEN: You shall judge that for yourself, sir, 
for I protest against your longer monopolizing Mistress 
Morgan. 

BURR : I've been selfish, I know, but I wanted her all 
to myself. 

ALICE : Scold me, too, Margaret, for it's my fault as 
much as his. 

MRS. BLEN: {Putting arm about Alice, and Xing L 
to L with her; in a bantering way. ) If you both feel that 
way, I'm going to stay right here for the sake of the pro- 
prieties. 

ALICE : Surely you don't think there was any harm 
in my sitting out here with Mr. Burr? 

MRS. BLEN : Of course not, my dear; but when other 
women are around one can't be too careful. 

ALICE : Particularly if ALL women are as critical as 
SOME women. 

MRS. BLEN : (L with Alice.) I think any woman lays 
herself open to criticism who tries to play fast and loose 
with two men at once. 

ALICE : What do you mean, Margaret Blennerhassett? 

MRS. BLEN : Nothing. I was only speaking generally, 
and mentioned no names. 

ALICE : You never do, dear; that's just your way. 

MRS. BLEN : At any rate I keep my temper. 



21 

ALICE : You have to ; no one else wants it. 

BUKR: {Cominy down to C.) Women are all pretty- 
much alike; in churches saints, at home angels, and to 
each other devils. 

MRS. BLEN: (L.) Ridiculous, sir. We were only 
funning; Alice knows I didn't mean anj^thing by what I 
said. 

ALICE: Of course not; any more than I did. You'll 
forgive me, won't you dear? 

MRS. BLEN : Yes, dear, providing you'll forgive me. 
{They kiss.) 

ALICE : Why, I never thought anything about it. 

MRS. BLEN: I know that, dear. {Aside, as Alice 
Xes RtoDC.) The fibber ! ( ^eats herself R of table L. ) 

ALICE : ( (7, aside to Burr. ) Cat ! 

Enter Col. Morgan, Widow Brown, R 2 E. 

BURR: {To Alice.) Your father seems quite atten- 
tive to the widow. 

ALICE : She's making a dead set for him, and, man- 
like, he can't see it. 

MORGAN: {R with Widow B; to Alice.) Well, dar- 
ter ! We was wonder in' what become of ye. 

ALICE: "We?" {Burr Xes L to Mrs. Blen, and re- 
mains standing while chatting icith her.) Who's "we?" 

WIDOW B.^ Me and yer Paw. 

ALICE: {Sharply.) It's very kind of you, ma'am, to 
concern yourself about me. 

WIDOW B. : {In anger.) I don't care 'bout you; I 
was only thinkin' of how worried yer Paw was. 

ALICE : I can't help it your worrying about him, but 
I'm quite old enough to manage my own affairs. 

WIDOAV B. : There ain't no doubt 'bout that ! 

MORGAN: {R.) Now, don't you two begin to fight 
again. 

WIDOW B. : Then make her stop pickin' onto me. 

MORGAN: Yes, Alice, you must stop a-pickin' onto 
her. 

ALICE: I didn't think my own father'd turn against 
me. 

MORGAN : {Xing L to A lice (7. ) There, there, darter ; 



22 

I didn't go to hurt yer feelings. {Fondles Alice.) 

WIDOW B. : [In anger.) That's right! Take her 
part, like you always do ! ( Goes up, and seats herself on 
bench up K C.) 

MORGAN: If you two's a goin' to keep this up, I'll 
run away from home and settle in that new eountry with 
friend Burr. 

ALICE: {Xing L to L.) Don't let him fool you, Mr. 
Burr; he'd never do that. 

MORGAN: 'Course not! You know well 'nuff I'd 
never pull up stakes and leave here. 

BURR: {Xing R to L C.) Yet there's more chance 
for a man to get on in a new country. {Alice seats herself 
L of table L, and engages in talk with Mrs. Blen.) 

MORGAN: Not a bit of it. When I first came west 
with nothing but a plow, a bed, a Bible and a wife, there 
wasn't a single family between here and the Allegheny 
Mountains, but at the rate we're growin', we'll soon have 
Congress sittin' at Pittsburg, 

BURR : No, never, for in less than five years you'll be 
totally divided from the Atlantic states. 

MORGAN : No such thing won't ever happen in my 
time. 

BURR: Why not, sir? This union of states cannot 
last long ; a separation must come sooner or later. 

MORGAN: D'ye mean to tell me our government's 
a-goin' to pieces ! 

BURR : I'm certain it'll soon die a natural death. Why, 
with two hundred men I could drive Congress into the Po- 
tomac, with the President at its head, and with five hun- 
dred men I could seize New York. 

MORGAN : You might take New York or Washington, 
but I'm damned if you could take our little town of Mari- 
etta with that force. {Goes up R C in much anger, and 
seats himself beside Widow Broivn in bench R C. ) 

Enter R 2 E, Blennevhassett, Dainess. 

BURR : Don't be angry, sir ; it's not your fault that the 
country's going to the dogs, 

MORGAN: If all folks think like you do, I ain't sur- 
prise ye can't find a partner to go into that land scheme of 
your'n. 



23 

BURR: i^ing R to C.) But I have found a partner 
in our worthy host here. 

MORGAN : Be you a goiu' in with him, Squire? 
BLEN: I've agreed to; it's the same thing. 

Enter Graham^ R 2 E. 

DAVIESS: {To Bleu, Graham standing at top of 
steps, R 2 E.) I beg of you think well over it; before you 
become partner in this enterprise. 

BURR: {To Daviess.) This is a matter between Mr. 
Blennerhassett and myself; by what right do you presume 
to interfere ! 

GRAHAM: {To Mrs. Blen., seated L.) Suppah am 
serbed, ma'am. 

DAVIESS: {Recalled to himself hy the presence of 
Graham.) I was only advising Mr. Blennerhassett not to 
put his money blindfolded into a business investment. 

MRS. BLEN: {Rising.) A truce to this discussion, 
gentlemen; let's go in to supper. {Xing R to C.) 

Exit Graham, R 2 E. 

MORGAN: {Rising and offering his arm to Widow 
Brown. ) Gome on, ma'am. ( Widow Brown rises, takes 
Morgan's arm, and they come doivn over R to house. Gen- 
eral movement of the company. Blennerhassett Xes L to 
Mrs. Blennerhassett C. Burr goes up C; Daviess stands 
R, Alice rises and stands L.) 

MORGAN : ( Coming down, arm in arm with Widow 
Brown. ) It's a fine day, mum. 

WIDOW B. : Yes, but I'm 'feared we're goin' to have 
rain. 

MORGAN : Oh no, it's too cold to rain. 

WIDOW B. : Wal, ye can most gen'rally calc'late on a 
cold spell 'long 'bout this time a year. 

Exeunt Col. Morgan, Widow Brotvn, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: (C with Blen, iclio offers her his arm.) 
Why dcm't you take Alice Morgan in to supper? 
BLEN : I think she'd rather have Burr. 
MRS. BLEN: She should take Joe Daviess! she came 



24 

over with him. {Takes Blot's arm and Xes with Mm 
up R. ) 

BLEN : At any rate, she'd rather have a younger man 
than me for company. 

MRS. BLEN: It looks so silly for husband and wife 
to go in together. 

BLEN : Nobody'U notice old married folks like we are. 

Exeunt Blennerhassett , Mrs. Blenerhassett, R 2 E. 

DAVIESS: {Xing L to Alice.) Shall we follow the 
others? 

BURR: {Coming down to Alice L.) I dared hope Mis- 
tress Alice might honor me. 

ALICE: Men are so scarce hereabouts, I've a mind to 
keep you both. 

BURR: Agreed. What do you say, Daviess? 

DAVIESS: {In anger.) No! This lady came here 
under my escort, Mr. Burr ! 

BURR : Then rather than drag the lady into a dispute 
I resign her to you. 

ALICE: But I've some voice in this matter myself. 
( To Burr. ) Your arm, Mr. Burr. 

BURR: {Giving Alice his arm; to Daviess, who Xes 
over toivard the house.) You must keep your temper, 
sir, when next you seek this lady's favor. 

DAVIESS: {Tn a rage.) That's like to be some time 
hence; I'll think twice of it before I force myself on her 
again. 

Exit Daviess, R 2 E. 

BURR: (L with Alice.) I fear I've brought discord 
into this bower of Eden, lady. 

ALICE : You're not to blame, Mr. Burr, only I'm sorry 
to have offended Joe; he and I are old friends. {Drops 
Burr's arm, and Xes R to C. ) 

BURR: And sweethearts, too, maybe. 

ALICE : We used to be as boy and girl. 

BURR : ( Xing R to A lice C. ) ^ And now ? 

ALICE : I declare I hardly know myself. 

BURR : But you'll forgive me if I've been the cause of 
a quarrel. 



25 

ALICE : It all Joe^s fault, for making me choose be- 
tween you. 

BURR : But your choice gives me hope I'm even better 
established in your regard than he. 

ALICE : Would you have me lose his friendship, just 
to win yours? 

BURR: Talk not in such formal terms, Mistress Alice; 
I'd be nearer to you than friend. 

ALICE : I vow, sir, you're an ardent wooer, and get on 
quickly. 

BURR : Would that my progress in your good graces 
could keep pace with my wishes. {Takes Alice by the 
hand.) 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : {At top of steps R 2 E.) I'm sorry to 
interrupt your billing and cooing, but company and supper 
are waiting on you both. 

BURR: {To Mrs. Blen.) I ask your pardon, madam; 
we'll keep you waiting no longer. {Burr raises Alice's 
hand to his lips, kisses it with well hred composure, gives 
her his arm and they X R toward the house, Mrs. Blenner- 
hassett remaining standing at top of steps as the curtain 
falls.) 

CURTAIN. 



26 



ACT 2. 



TRE &CENE: Interior; a room in Blennerhassetfs 
house; elaborate furnishings of the period (1806.) Essen- 
tials : Fire place, with unlighted fire L2 E, Sofa L., table 
R C, hand bell on table; chairs R and L of table. Doors : 
L C,L2 E,R2 E,R 4: E. DISCO VERED : Burr, Blen- 
nerhassett. Burr is seated in chair L of table R G study- 
ing map; Blennerhassett is stretched out listlessly on sofa 
L. A momentary pause. 



BURR: (Laying map aside.) There! I think I know 
every cow path 'twixt here and Mexico. (Taking cigars 
from pocket, and offering one to Blennerhassettt.) Smoke? 

BLEN: (Absently.) Eh? 

BURR : Will >ou have a cigar? 

BLEN : No, thank you. 

BURR: (After brief pause; regarding Blen intently.) 
Anything gone wrong with you? 

BLEN: (Sitting up.) No. Why? 

BURR : You seem rather, — er — preoccupied ; that's all. 

BLEN: (After brief pause.) Well, Burr, there is 
something wrong; I want your advice. 

BURR : Advice is the one thing which is more blessed 
to give than receive. (Lighting cigar.) What is it? 

BLEN : It concerns my wife. 

BURR: (In surprise.) Your wife? 

BLEN : Yes. 

BURR : Suppose we drop the subject ; I've no wish to 
pry into your family affairs. 

BLEN: (Rising, and Xing R to Burr R G.) But I 
must tell you ; I need your help as a friend. 

BURR: How can I serve you? Your relations with Mrs. 
Blennerhassett are of the happiest character. 

BLEN: They were until lately; but now a shadow hns 
come between us. My wife seems to be slipping away 
from me. 



27 

BUKR : You mean she is growing indifferent? 

BLEN : More and more so every day. 

BURR: How long since she began to change toward 
you? 

BLEN: I can't say exactly; for the past few weeks; — 
since 3' ou came, at any rate. 

BURR : (Rising.) This is but a morbid fancy of yours, 
my friend; nothing more. (Lays hand on Blen's shoulder.) 

BLEN: Ah no I If I didn't love her so, Burr, perhaps 
I wouldn't have noticed it; but I didn't know myself how 
much I thought of her till I began to lose her love. 

BURR: Nonsense, man! What makes you think your 
wife no longer cares for you? 

BLEN : She used to be happy and contented. Now's 
she's unhappy, lonesome and nerA^ous with me, and some- 
times I see her looking at me in a sort of timid, pitying 
way. What shall I do. Burr? 

BURR: (Xing L to L.) Take her away from here as 
soon as you can. My word for it, in the pomp and glitter 
of court life your wife will soon be her old self once more. 

BLEN : That's what I hoped for when I joined your 
expedition. 

BURR: Your hopes will be realized. Never fear, sir. 
I guarantee you'll win back her love. 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : (Xing L. ) Oh, here you are ! Just like 
a couple of selfish men to go off by yourselves and leave me 
alone. (Stands R C, with Blen.) 

BLEN : We thought you'd tire of us if you had too much 
of our company. 

MRS. BLEN: How considerate. (To Burr.) And 
what is your excuse, sir? 

BURR : I have none ; I throw myself on your mercy. 

MRS. BLEN: Expect none from me; you shall be pun- 
ished for your inattention. 

BLEN : If you've missed me I'm punished already. 
(Kisses her hand.) 

BURR : Sparking with your wife? That's an old-fash- 
ioned custom, sir. 

BLEN : I'm an old-fashioned man, Burr, and like such 
old customs. 



BUlvR: Yet you should share the feelings of a poor 
bachelor. 

BLEN : Then why don't you get married yourself? 
Come, let Mrs. Blennerhassett pick out a wife for you. 
( To M rs. Bleu. ) Eh, Margaret ? 

MRS. BLEN : Perhaps Mr. Burr never intends to 
marry. 

BUKK : To tell you the truth, I think marriage is some- 
thing of a lottery, sir, even though you were lucky enough 
to draw a prize. 

BLEN : A prize I'm unworthy of, sir, dull old dreamer 
that I am. {Attempts to kiss Mrs. Blen, who presents her 
cheek.) Nay, Margaret, give me an honest wife's kiss, 
[Kisses Mrs. Bleiis lips.) 

MRS. BLEN: {Freeing herself from Blen's embrace.) 
There, there, Harman; it's so awkward to be pawed over 
in company. 

BLEN: {Resignedly; going up and over L.) It's get- 
ting to be so a man can't kiss his own wife for fear some- 
body'll see him. 

MRS. BLEN : {R C.) Are you going over to town? 

BLEN : ( Up C. ) I hadn't thought of it ; why? 

MRS. BLEN : I was going to say if you were, we're all 
out of coarse salt for the cows, and the shed roofs leaking 
again. 

BLEN : We're going away so soon there's no use to 
bother about the shed roof. 

MRS. BLEN: But you don't want the cows to suffer? 

BLEN : No; I suppose I might as well go over to Mari- 
etta and run errands for the cows, ( Goes up. ) 

MRS. BLEN: {Going up, after Blen.) Oh, yes, and 
don't forget to stop in at the store and see if they've been 
able to match that taffeta for me, and remember we're out 
of coal for the kitchen stove. 

BLEN : I'll hurry away before you tl\ink of something 
else. 

Efpit BJennrrJiassrft. L G. 

BURR: Why did you send your husband on that wild 
goose cliase, Margaret? 

MRS, BLEN: {Up G.) In order to have a talk with 
you. Burr; our chats are all too rare nowadays for me to 



29 

neglect opportunity. 

UUKK : How can I serve you, madam? 

MRS. BLEN: A truce to formality, sir; why do you 
avoid me of late? 

BUKK : I assure you — 

MRS. BLEN: {Interrupting.) No excuses, I beg. 
{Coming down to Burr L.) Come, sit down, be honest, 
and tell me why you're growing more indifferent towai'd 
me every day. {ISeats herself on sofa L.) 

BURR : Frankly, then, I fear lest oui' affair be discov- 
ered. {ISeats himself beside Mrs. Blen on sofa L.) 

MRS. BLEN : I marvel to learn that Mr. Buit fears 
anything or anybody. 

BURR : I fear for you, not myself. Suppose your hus- 
band find out — 

MRS. BLEN : {Interrupting.) Why speak of him? 

BURR : Because I reproach myself for having ever come 
between you; can you forgive me? 

MRS. BLEN : We were both to blame. 

BURR : Then we'll both forget. 

MRS. BLEN: Ah no. Burr! Where our hearts are 
touched we women always forgive, — ^but we never forget. 

BURR: You must forget, Margaret, and be happy 
henceforth in your husband's love. 

MRS. BLEN: I fear it's too late for that. {Leaning 
toward Butt, and showing increased passion in her man- 
ner.) Oh, Burr, it's hard to be married to a good man, and 
want to love him, yet never like to have him even take 
your hand, and be more than glad when he's away, than 
when he is by your side, and then to think how different 
it would be if he was only someone else. 

BURR : Don't go on in that strain, Margaret. I'm no 
modern Joseph, but I'll be no longer a false friend to your 
husband. 

MRS. BLEN: {Rising, in a passion.) You think I be- 
lieve in your sudden consideration for him. No ! You wish 
to break with me because 3^ou love Alice Morgan ! 

BURR: {Rising.) Even so, need that make us bad 
friends? 

MRS. BLEN: Yes! You're not the first wise man to 
be deceived by a fool of a woman; she loves Joe Daviess, 
and is only coquetting with you. {Xing R to C.) 



30 

BUER : I'll take my chances with Daviess in that quar- 
ter. 

MBS. BLEN: Do you really love this girl? 

BURR : Yes; with all my heart. 

MRS. BLEN : Talk not to me of hearts; least of all of 
yours' Aaron Burr, when you'd fling me aside for the first 
pretty face that crosses your path! Come, sir, be fairly 
off with the old love before being on with the new ! 

BURR: S — h — h! {Going up and over R). 

MRS. BLEN: What is it? 

BURR: {1)1 a ivhisper.) Someone's listening behind 
that door. {Indicating door R ^ E). I saw it close. 
{Burr goes up over R cautiously , and suddenly throws the 
door R A E open, but there is no one there; he peers out for 
a moment, then closes the door.) 

MRS. BLEN : {Xing Rto RC, much agitated.) Well? 

BURR : No one there. 

MRS. BLEN : It must have been your imagination. 
{Knocking at door up, and off L.) 

BURR: {Coming down to Mrs. Blen. R C.) No; I'm 
certain someone was listening, but took the alarm and got 
away. 

MRS. BLEN: Who could it have been? 

Enter Graham, R ^E. 

MRS. BLEN: v {As Burr points to Graham, who Xes 
up over L. ) What makes you think so? 

BURR : He was too quick in coming to the door to have 
been far off. 

Ecoit Graham, L C. 

MRS. BLEN : I'll question him. 

BURR: No! Don't let him think we suspect him; by 
spying on him we'll soon learn why he's spying on us. 

Re-enter Graham, L C. 

GRAHAM : {At door L C.) Miss Morgan, ma'am. 
MRS. BLEN : {To Burr.) How provoking. {To Gra- 
ham, in a whisper.) Say I'm not at h(mie. 
GRAHAM : I done said you Avas ma'am. 



31 

MRS. BLEN: {In a whisper.) How stupid of you. 
Say I'll be right down. {Xing over R.) 
GRAHAM : Yee'iii. 

Ewit Graham, L C. 

BURR: You're not going? 

MRS. BLEN: You don't suppose I want that woman 
to see me in this dishevelled condition do you? 

Ewit Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 
Re-enter Graham^ Enter Alice, L C. 

GRAHAM: {Up L G with Alice.) Misses was a lyin' 
down ma'am, but she'll be right in. {Xes up over R.) 

ALICE : Don't disturb her on my account I beg. 

BURR : ( Going up. ) Let me do the honors in our hos- 
tess' absence. 

ALICE : ( Coming down to Burr. ) Why Mr. Burr ! 
I haven't seen you since last night. 

BURR: {Shaking hands with Alice up C) To me 
Mistress Alice it seems well nigh an eternity, 

ALICE : Be saving of your pretty speeches, sir, else I'll 
question your sincerity . 

Ewit Graham, R 4. E. 

BURR: {kitarting to remove Alice's wrap.) I'll main- 
tain the sincerity of my regard for you against all comers. 

ALICE: {As Burr fingers at her wrap.) I vow sir 
you're mighty awkward. 

BURR: Would that my fingers were all thumbs that I 
might be the longer over this. {Removes wn'ap.) 

ALICE: {Coming down to L with Burr.) You may 
help me on with it again when I leave. 

BURR : Have you made it up with your faithful shadow 
Daviess? 

ALICE : Indeed not, after the way he went on last 
night. 

BURR : I vow he does me too much honor. 

ALICE: La sir! I didn't say he's jealous of YOU. 

BURR: If he be jealous of anyone else I'm at one with 
him; our cause is mutual. 



32 

ALICE: Don't begin your sparking again now that 
we're alone, or you'll drive me away. {Seats herself on 
sofa.) 

BURR: Indeed; and why? {Seats himself beside 
Alice.) 

ALICE: Because I fear you're a sad character Mr. 
Burr. 

BURR : What kind friend has been talking about me? 

ALICE: Your reputation for gallantry is common re- 
port sir. 

BURR : Its not in mere gallantry that I declare I ad- 
mire you Mistress Alice, more than any woman I've ever 
known. 

ALICE : How many other women have you said that to, 
sir? 

BURR: For me there is no other woman but you; for 
you I'd forswear the rest of the sex. 

ALICE : La me, sir ! You're getting on too fast. 

BURR : A bold charge is better than a long siege in af- 
fairs of the heart, Alice. I'm no hand for your slow sober 
style of love making. Right now I'll stake my happiness 
on a kiss. {Makes effort to kiss Alice.) 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: (i?.) I vow, you two seem to be get- 
ting on famously together. 

ALICE : {Rising hiirriedly with Burr.) Mr. Burr was 
trying to get something out of my eye. 

MRS. BLEN : Shall I retire Avhile he makes another 
effort? 

ALICE : No; I think its out now. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing L to C.) At any rate this is a 
pleasant surprise, and I'm awfully glad to see you, dear. 
*" ALICE : {Xing R to Mrs. Blen.) But did you ever see 
me — such a fright as I am today. 

MRS. BLEN: Yes, dear; I've >seen you look much 
worse. 

ALICE : I'm sorry I can't return the compliment, for 
I never saw you look worse. {They kiss.) What's the 
matter; aren't you well? 

MRS. BLEN: I never felt better; and from your re- 
mark I'm quite convinced I look it, too. (A pause.) 



33 

BURR: {Breaking the silence.) How's your father, 
Miss Morgan? 

ALICE: {Xing L to L C.) Pretty well, thank you. 
He and Mrs. Brown came over with me, but stopped to look 
through your boat. 

B UKR : My men will allow no one on board without a 
word from me. So I must go down and do the honors. 
{Goes up L.) 

ALICE : {Going up L C.) Take me with you; I'm dy- 
ing to see it. 

MRS. BLEN : {To Alice.) I flattered myself that you 
came over to see me. 

ALICE : ( Up L C.) Sol did ; to be sure. 

MRS. BLEN : Then stay here and keep me company. 

BURR : {Up L C.) And don't leave till I come back; 
I'll hurry them over the boat as fast as I can. 

Ewit Burr, L C. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing over B, and seating herself R of 
table RC.) I want to have a plain talk with you, Alice; I 
feel its my duty to do so. 

ALICE: {Up L C.) If you put it on the ground of 
duty it must be something disagreeable. 

MRS. BLEN: Not necessarily; I only want to advise 
you not to allow Aaron Burr to pay you so much attention. 

ALICE : And why? 

MRS. BLEN : Because he's not the right sort of man 
to be thrown too much into your society. 

ALICE: {Coming down to C.) That's such a general 
charge; pray be more specific. 

MRS. BLEN : To begin with he's a man of the world. 

ALICE : Delightful. 

MRS. BLEN : A man of gallantry. 

ALICE : Better and better. 

MRS. BLEN: A town bred man of fashion and easy 
morals. 

ALICE: Yet what a contrast between him and the 
dull boors about here. 

MRS. BLEN : Because he pays you compliments I 
suppose. Burr says much, and means little with his foolish 
talk. 

ALICE : {Xing R, and seating herself L of table R C.) 



34 

A girl likes such foolish talk, Margaret ; somehow or other 
its what we women understand. {Knocking at outer door 
up and off L. ) 

MRS. BLEN: A man may be saving of his pretty 
speeches, and yet make a good husband. 

ALICE : Yes — but he'd make a bad lover. 

MRS. BLEN: {Rising.) I'll not discuss it with you; 
I've done my duty in warning you, and after all its your 
affair not mine. {Xes L to C.) Indeed you may think 
it strange I'd concern myself in the matter at all. 

Enter Graham B ^ E. 

ALICE: Since you speak of it I do. {Graham Xes 
over L at rear.) 

MRS. BLEN : Its only because I don't wish you to be- 
come interested in a man of Burr's reputation. 

ALICE : I assure you I'm not sufficiently interested 
in the man to warrant your anxiety on my account. 

Exit Graham, L C. 

MRS. BLEN : From what I saw a while ago I thought 
you liked him well enough. 

ALICE : I didn't kiss him ; you know I didn't. 

MRS. BLEN: But he'd have kissed you if I hadn't 
come in just as I did. 

ALICE : Indeed not ; I wouldn't have allowed him to. 

MRS. BLEN: Perhaps not; but you didn't seem to be 
making much resistance. 

Re-enter Graham. Enter Col. Morgan, Widow Brown, 
L. C. 

MORGAN: Howdy ma'am. {Comes down with Wid- 
ow B.) Is the squire at home? {Graham Xes up over R 
and stands at door R 4: E.) 

MRS. BLEN: {Going up.) No, sir; he's gone over to 
town. {Meets Morgan and Widow B., up C, and shakes 
hands imth them in turn.) 

MORGAN : That's too bad, fi^r T came all the way over 
here to see him about this expedition of Burrs'. 

MRS. BLEN : What about it, sir? 



35 

MORGAN: {Coming down to L.) There's something 
behind it all ; I don't like the looks of things. 

WIDOW B. : The way Burr hurried ye' around ye' 
didn't see much. 

MORGAN : I saw enough. That boat of his is fitted 
out like a man of war, and I'm afeard if the squire sticks 
to him he'll get himself in trouble. 

Eccit Graham^ R 4 IJ. 

ALICE: {Seated R C.) I declare, father, you're as 
down on Mr. Burr as Margaret. 

MRS. BLEN : {Coming down to Alice R C.) You're 
wTong, my dear, in thinking I'm down on him; I was only 
advising you as a friend to have nothing more to do with 
him. 

MORGAN : That's pretty sound advice too, ma'am. 

ALICE: {Rising in a huff.) I'll go out till you get 
through discussing Burr. I'm sick and tired of the sub- 
ject. {Goes up.) 

WIDOW B. : {Up C, to Alice. ) Don't get mad, Alice ; 
yer Paw didn't mean anything; he only — 

ALICE: {Fiercely ; interrupting.) Don't you presume 
to meddle in my affairs, ma'am. ( To Mrs. Blen & Morgan; 
going up to door L C.) And as for you, father, and you, 
Margaret, if you keep on talking against Burr, I vow I'll 
fall in love with the man. 

Exit Alice, L C. 

MRS. BLEN: {R C.) I rather wonder myself, sir, 
at your being so hard on Burr, when he aspires to be of 
your family. {Seats herself R of table R C.) 

MORGAN: What d'ye mean, ma'am? 

MRS. BLEN: That Mr. Burrs' in love with your 
daughter to be sure, 

MORGAN: {Seating himself on sofa L.) Alice is a 
goin' to marry Joe Daviess; she don't care nothin' 'bout 
Burr. 

MRS. BLEN: Maybe not; but he cares for her, which 
sometimes amounts to the same thing, 

WIDOW B. : {Up C.) How d'ye know he does, ma'am? 

MRS. BLEN: Because he told me so. 



36 

WIDOW B. : {ComiiKj doivn to C.) That dun't prove 
notliiu'; ye' can't always believe what a man says. 

MRS. BLEN : Of course it makes no difference to me 
one way or the other, only as Alice met Burr through me, I 
felt it my duty to warn her against him. 

WIDOW B. : But I thought all along, ma'am, that 
Burr was a friend of yourn. 

MRS. BLEN : And so he is. 

WIDOW B. : Then all I can say is, I pity your enemies. 

MRS. BLEN : Don't misunderstand me, madam. I 
like him as a friend very very much, but I wouldn t want 
a daughter of mine to marr}^ such a man as Aaron Burr. 

MORGAN : 'Course ye' wouldn't; neither would I, and 
I'm goin' to put a stop to this business right now ! 

WIDOW B. : Bakes alive, Morgan, what ye' goin' to 
do? 

MORGAN: [Rising.) Send for this feller, and tell 
him to stop gallivantin' 'round Alice. 

MRS. BLEN : {Risiny. ) Don't mention me in the mat- 
ter, else my motives might be misconstrued. 

MORGAN : Coui'se not, mum. 

MRS. BLEN: (Going; Xing R.) Then we'll leave 
them together; come Mrs. Brown. 

WIDOW B. : Just a minute, ma'am; I'm goin' to see 
fust if I can't talk Morgan out of interferin', 

MORGAN : Don't you go to meddlin' in things that 
don't consarn ye', ma'am ! 

Exit Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

WIDOW B. : [Xing L to Morgan L.) Ain't ye 'shamed 
of yourself to get so mad, and you a deacon in the church. 

MORGAN: [Xing over R.) Ain't it enough to make 
me mad to have a man like — a takin' a shine to my darter? 

WIDOW B. : {Heating herself on sofa L.) I 'spose 
somebody's a goin' to take a shine to her sooner or later. 

MORGxiN : {In a rage.) If the right man comes along, 
let him take her and welcome, but I'm goin' to put a stop 
to Burr's courtin' 'fore it goes too far. {Rings hell on 
taMe R V.) 

WIDOW B. : D'ye think she'd be takin' any more 
chances marryin' him than any other feller? 

MORGAN: Yes; he ain't my sort of man. 



37 

AA''IDOW B. : What difference does that make; he ain't 
tried to make love to you, has he? 

MORGAN : No, and he's only arter Alice 'cause he 
thinks she's a rich gal. 

WIDOW B.: I think yer wrong there; he ain't one of 
yer calculatin' kind. 

MORGAN: Wal I don't like him nohow; and besides 
I'm kinder suspicious of this expedition of his'n. 

Enter Graham^ R 4: E. 

GRAHAM: {Up R; to Morgan.) Did ye' ring, sah? 

MORGAN : Yes ; go find Mr. Burr, and tell him I want 
to see him here right off. 

GRAHAM: {Xing irresoJntcly over up L.) He's out- 
side with Miss Alice, sah, and I'se kinder 'fraid to bother 
him when he's with a lady. 

MORGAN: {Taking after Graham, and Xing L to C.) 
Hurry, you black rascal, or I'll measure your hide for a 
pair of boots ! 

GRAHAM: {Going quicJdy.) Don't trouble yourself ; 
I'll tell him, sah. {Aside.) What chance has one poor 
niggah' got 'tween two white men. 

Exit Graham, L C. 

WIDOW B. : Don't ye' think yer in a powerful hurry 
'bout this? Perhaps he ain't waitin' on her arter all. 

MORGAN : Then I'll stop him 'fore he begins. 

WIDOW B. : {Rising, and Xing R to Morgan C.) 
Fust thing you know, you'll have Alice in love with the 
man, if she isn't already. She'll think all the more of him 
if you mix in. 

MORGAN : What would you do about it, marm? 

WIDOW B. : Nothin' ; just let things take their course. 

MORGAN: {Xing R to R C.) Not much; I'll marry 
her off to Joe Daviess 'fore I give her to Burr. 

WIDOW B. : What will she have to say about it? 

MORGAN : She'll do as I say, marm ; my darter never 
disobeyed me yet. 

WIDOW B. : Then there's never been a man in the case 
before. (Xing to Morgan, R. C.) Why is it you men are 
so dumb where women is concerned? 



MORGAN : Bosli I Gals don't know their own minds ; 
a week arter she married Daviess, she'd forget all about 
Burr. 

WIDOW B. : I tell you, George Morgan, no good ever 
came of old folks mixing in young folks' love affairs. 
{Seats herself R of table R C.) You're just as sot and 
stubborn's 3'^ou can be, and you're a going' to make a nice 
mess of this 'fore you get through. 

MORGAN : {Xing L to C.) You seem mighty anxious 
marm, to have my darter married off to Burr. 

WIDOW B. : She's got to be married off to someone 
'fore I'll take you, and maybe if you don't let her have her 
way she'll stay single just to spite ye. 

Enter Burr, Alice, L C. 

BURR: {Up L C, with Alice.) You sent for me, sir? 

MORGAN: Yes. {To Alice.) But I didn't send for 
you, miss. 

ALICE: {Coming down L C\ Burr remaining up.) Its 
so lonesome waiting around all alone. 

MORGAN : I'll not keep you waiting long. 

ALICE : {To Burr, Xing over L.) Then when you get 
through with father, you'll find me in here. 

MORGAN: No! You w^ait for me down at the boat, 
because we're goin' right back home. 

ALICE : I don't see why you're in such a hurry. 

BURR : ( Coming down to L. ) You go on ahead, sir ; 
I'll row your daughter back across the river, and see to it 
that she gets home. 

MORGAN: {Savagely.) No! {To Alice.) Do as I 
tell ye' miss, and wait for me outside. {Xing R and seat- 
ing himself L of table R C.) 

ALICE : {Laying wrap aside; to Burr.) I'll forget my 
wrap for an excuse to come back. 

BURR: Good; and I'll wait for you here. {They go 
up L.) 

WIDOW B. : You left your wrap, Alice. 

ALICE : Thank you, ma'am, but its so hot out, I don't 
believe I'll need it. 

WIDOW B. : Hot! Land sakes, child, you'll catch yer 
death of cold. 

MORGAN: Yes; certain ye' will. Put it on, gal. 



39 

ALICE: (In a temper, talcing up wrap and tlirowing 
it on.) Of course, father, dear, if you think I'd better. 
{Goes up L C with Burr.) 

BUER: I must see you again. 

ALICE : Then I'll come right back, slip in the side 
door, and wait for you in the library. {Indicating door 
L2 E.) 

BUER: You won't fail? 

ALICE: Indeed not; I'll give father the slip for once. 

Exit Alice L C. 

BURR: {Coming down to C.) Now I'm at your ser- 
vice, sir; what is it? 

MORGAN : Wal to come right to the pint. Burr, with- 
out any beatin' 'round the bush, I want you to stop waitin' 
on mj darter Alice. 

BURR : Your way of putting it certainly has the merit 
of being easily understood. 

MORGAN : I'm glad of that, for I want you to know 
once for all, I won't have you a sparkin' my gal no more. 

BURR : {WitJi a laugh.) Faith, sir, let me begin first. 
I've never made more serious love to your daughter than 
to pay her the most ordinary attentions. 

MORGAN: So much the better; it'll be all the easier 
for you to let her alone herearter. 

BURR : But really she doesn't seem to object to my at- 
tentions. 

WIDOW B.: (Seated R C.) In course she don't. 

MORGAN : ( To Widow Bro wn. ) Wal I do, and that's 
enough. 

BLTRR : Nevertheless with all due respect to you, sir, 
I'll take my dismissal from your daughter rather than 
from you. 

MORGAN! You'll take it from me! 

WIDOW B. : George ^Morgan, you're an old fool ! 

MORGAN: (Rising.) I wish you'd keep yourself to 
yourself, marm! 

WIDOW B. : {Rising. ) That's the thanks I get for ad- 
visin' you. 

MORGAN: Keep yer advice for them as asks for it; I 
don't want no more of it. 

WIDOW B. : {Going; Xing over R in anger.) I'll take 



40 

myself away so's not to bother you no more. I wash my 
hands of the whole business, and don't want to hear no 
more about it. {Goes out, slamming the door after her.) 

Exit Widow Brown, R 2 E. 

BUKR: Come, sir, be fair with me. What have I done 
to merit your displeasure? Its my right to know why you 
forbid my attentions to your daughter. 

MOliGAN : 'Fore one thing I already promised her to 
Joe Daviess. 

BUKR : And is the lady herself to have no voice in the 
selection of a husband? 

MORGAN: Yes, providin' she don't choose you. 

BURR: But I have a high regard for Mistress Alice, 
and believe she cares something for me. 

MORGAN: I'll soon put a stop to that; she shall have 
nothing more to do with you, sir! 

BURR : She may in spite of you. 

MORGAN : Then you'll have to carry her off by force. 
(Widow Brown opens door R 2 E, and leaving it ajar lis- 
tens unobserved.) 

BURR : I may persuade her into it, in spite of all you 
can say or do. In short, sir, I love your daughter, and 
hope some day to make her my wife. 

MORGAN: Never! I'll keep her safe at home till 
you've left these parts. 

BURR : Come, sir, I'll make you a fair proposition. 
Give me some good reason for refusing my suitj and I 
promise to give Alice up. 

MORGAN: I don't like you. Burr, that's reason 
enough for me. 

BURR: liut not for me! 

MORGAN: You want that motherless girl to give up 
her father, — home, — friends, — to follow you out into the 
world ! 

BURR : Wlmt are father, — home, — 'friends, — Aveighed 
in the balance against my love! 

MORGAN : \Xing Rto Burr C. ) What does a man of 
your free way of living know of love! I'd no more let you 
marry her than mate a hawk to a pigeon! 

BURR: Perhaps the lady herself won't feet that way 
about it. You know its your daughter I wish to marry; 



41 

not jon, sir. 

MORGAN: {In a rage.) I tell you once for all, Burr, 
you can't have her! 

BURR : That depends on the lady herself. 

MORGAN : No ! You'll never marry Alice with my 
consent ! 

BURR: Then I'll do it without it. I give you fair 
warning, if your daughter loves me, I'll marry her, wheth- 
er you like it or not ! 

Enter Widow Brown, R 2 E. 

WIDOW B.: {Xing over L to R C.) Good for you. 
Burr; stand up for your rights. 

MORGAN: (0.) Listening, eh? {Alice opens door L 2 
E, and is about to enter the room. ) 

WIDOW B. : {As Burr Xes over L and makes sign to 
Alice to withdraw.) I tried not to, but you talked so loud 
I couldn't help it. {Alice withdraivs, having been observ- 
ed by Burr and Widow B, but not by Morgan.) 

MORGAN: I had to talk loud to let this feller know 
he couldn't marry Alice. 

Burr: (L C.) As I've already told you, sir, I'll not 
give her up, till she herself refuses my suit. 

MORGAN: We'll see about that. {Going up.) She's 
waitin' for me down at the boat. I'm going to take her 
home with me riglit now, and keep her there till you've 
left these parts for good and all. 

Exit Morgan, L C. 

WIDOW B. : Better call him back; he'll be all the mad- 
der when he finds out the gal's here. 

BURR: {Xing R to C.) I must have one last word; 
suppose Alice cares for me after all. 

WIDOW B. : It won't make any difference; she'll do 
as her Paw tells her to. (Seating herself L of table R C.) 
I'm sorry for ye, Burr, but you might as well give her up 
fust as last. 

BURR: Without a struggle? Never! 

WIDOW B.: 'Taint no use in fightin' Morgan; he's 
bound to have his way. 

BURR : I'm going to. 



42 

WIDOW B. : Morgan 11 be back and stop ye' 'fore ye' — 

BURK: I must take my chances on that, and try to 
have her answer one way or the other before he can inter- 
fere. 

WIDOW B. : Ye' w on't have much time for your 
sparkin'. 

BUEIl: {Xing R to Widow B., B\ C\) Then don't 
make me fritter it away, when every moment counts. 
( Takes Widoiv B. hy the arm. ) 

WIDOW B. : {Rising.) I'll help ye' all 1 can; what 
d'ye want me to do? 

BURK: {Leading Widow B. up and over L.) Keep 
the father out of the way whilst I make love to the daugh- 
ter. 

WIDOW B. : I'll do my best, but you'll have to hurry 
up. 

BURR : HoAV can I ever thank you for your kindness. 

WIDOW B. : {At door up L C, with Burr. ) You don't 
owe me no thanks, for I like ye', Burr, and besides just be- 
tween you and I and the gate post, I want Alice married 
off 'bout as bad as 3- ou do. 

Enter Alice Morgan, L2 E. 

ALICE: (L.) What in the world are you talking 
about all this time; but where's father? 

WIDOW B.: He'll be back; don't worry. 

ALICE : I might know you wouldn't let him out of 
your sight for long. 

W^IDOW B. : That's the thanks I get for trying to keep 
him from kickin' over the traces. 

ALICE: Is he provoked about something? 

WIDOW B.: "Provoked?" That's no name for it; he's 
mad clean through and buttoned at the back. {Burr gent- 
ly pushes Widow B out.) 

Exit Widow Brown, L C. 

ALICE : What could have happened to vex dear father. 

BURR: {Coming down L to Alice standing L.) I 
haven't the slightest notion, I'm sure. 

ALICE : Don't tell fibs, Mr. Burr ; come confess, sir, 
vou had words with him. 



43 

BURE : Say rather he had words with me. In fact, to 
put it mildly your father doesn't admire me, and says he 
won't allow me to even see you again. 

ALICE: {Seating herself on sofa L.) And what do 
you intend to do about it, sir? 

BURR : That rests with you, Mistress Alice. I'm not 
disposed to give you up so easily; say the word and we'll 
go right on, in spite of him. 

ALICE: I can't deceive my father; I must receive you 
openly as a friend, or not at all. Leave him to me, and 
I'll bring him "round. 

BURR: {Seating himself beside Alice on sofa L.) But 
if he won't listen to you ; if in spite of all you can say, he 
insists that our friendship come to an end, what will you 
do? 

ALICE : Obey my father, and do as he says, I presume. 

BURR: But you owe something to me; let me hoiDe, 
something to yourself. 

ALICE : I can't consider myself in this, Mr. Burr, for 
we women are called on to love, honor and obey, and its 
part of our creed to wear our lives away, doing what we're 
told to do. 

BURR : I can't give you up, now that I'm soon to leave 
this place for good and all. 

ALICE : {In concern.) But surely you'll come back — 
some time? 

BURR : I fear not. 

ALICE : Then who knows — perhaps we'll never meet 
again. 

BURR: You'll think of me sometimes after I'm gone; 
you'll miss me now and then? 

ALICE : More perhaps than you think for. 

BURR : Yet I dare say after a few days — a week — a 
month at most I'll be forgotten. 

ALICE : Ah no, Mr. Burr : You're going out into the 
world where its so easy to forget, while I remain here with 
reminders of our pleasant friendship all about me. In- 
deed I think its all the harder for the one that's left be- 
hind. 

BURR : Why need yon be left behind? Come with me, 
and let us go hand in hand out into that great world you 
speak of. 

ALICE: Take care, sir. You're getting on too fast 



44 

again. 

BURR : This is no idle affair of gallantry. I love you, 
Alice, and dare to hope that love strikes a responsive spark 
in your heart which — 

ALICE: {Interrupting, and rising.) I beg you, sir, 
not another word! 

BURR : {Rising.) Let me learn my fate, and then I'm 
done. {Puts arm about Alice.) Promise to make me the 
happiest, most envied of men. 

ALICE: {Freeing herself from Burr, and Xing R to 
C.) La, sir! If you're really in earnest, I must say you 
don't waste much time in your courting. 

BURR: {Xing R, to Alice C.) I must speak now be- 
fore its too late! Though you deserve a longer wooing 
sweetheart, yet there's time enough and to spare for that. 
Courtship always ends in marriage. 

ALICE : Yes ; but marriage doesn't always end in court- 
ship, 

BUJRR : Let me prove to you that it will in this case. 
Marry me first, and I'll court you ever after. 

ALICE : Yet I've heard a woman should get her court- 
ing all in before marriage — or not at all. {Xing R to R 
C. Alice aside Burr; he follows her about.) 

BURR: {Xing R to Alice R C.) A lifetime of court- 
ing would be but a constant variation of the same sweet 
tune. I love you, sweetheart ! >Miat more can I say ! 

ALICE: {Xiiig L to C.) You might at least compare 
my eyes to stars; pledge devotion with your heart's blood, 
and swear eternal constancy by the moon. 

BURR: {Xing L to Alice C.) I promise you instead 
of all that story-book romance, the devotion of a man, who 
for the first time in his stormy life, seeks happiness in the 
love of a true woman. {Takes Alice hfj the hand.) 

ALICE: {Attempting to withdraw her hand.) I vow, 
sir, you make love with such a rush I don't know my own 
heart yet. You must give me time to think this over. 

Enter Morgan, L C. 

BURR: {Not seeing Morgan, talcing Alice in his arms, 
and draiving her to him, in spite of her efforts to break 
away.) I must have your answer now. Say you'll marry 
me! Promise you'll be my wife! 



45 

MORGAN: {Who has remained standing up L C.) 
No! {Coming down hurriedly to C.) Didn't I tell you, 
sir, you shan't marry my darter! {Comes between them, 
and separates Burr and Alice.) 

BURR: {R C.) Sir, if she's willing, I'll marry her 
whether you like it or not. 

MORGAN : Hark'ee, Burr ! Not one dollar will I give 
her if — 

BURR: {Interrupting.) To the devil with your dirty 
dollars ! I want your daughter, not your money ! 

MORGAN : Then if you won't take a "no" from me, 
take it from the gal! {To Alice, Xing to Alice L C.) 
Darter, ye never disobeyed me in jer life. Tell this man 
you won't marry him, and send him about his business ! 

BURR: {Xing L to C.) Or brave your father's dis- 
pleasure, and say you'll be my wife ! Choose between us ! 
{A momentary pause. Alice hesitates, then Xes R, and 
throws herself in Burr's arms C.) 

MORGAN : Very well, gal ! You've made your choice 
for better or for worse, and it's no more consarn of mine. 
{Goes up L C.) 

ALICE: {Disengaging herself from Burr's embrace, 
and going up a few steps after Morgan.) You leave me 
like this, father? 

MORGAN : Yes. You've thrown yourself away on this 
adventurer; now take the consequences! 

Exit Morgan, L C. 

BURR: Don't cry, sweetheart. Come! Let me kiss 
those tears away. {Goes up to Alice and takes her in his 
arms. ) 

ALICE: {Sohhing.) But I haven't accepted you yet, 
Burr. 

BURR : But you would have done so if your father'd 
only given you time. {Burr draws Alice to him, and 
kisses her, as the curtain falls.) 

CURTAIN. 



46 



ACT 3. 



THE SCENE : Same as Act 2. DISCOVERED : Burr 
and Alice seated R and L respectively of table R C, with 
map between them. 



ALICE: {Looking up from map.) Now that you've 
explained it so thorouglily to nie, Burr, I can't see how 
you can fail to conquer Mexico, and have this whole west- 
ern country at your feet as well. 

BURR : I told you of my plans not for fear of failure, 
but that you might know before deciding to share my for- 
tunes, that you follow me into danger. 

ALICE : What do I care for danger if we share it to- 
gether? 

BURR: And together we'll reap the reward. {Rising ^ 
and standing behind Alice with hands on her shoulders.) 
I'll make you an empress, though already you are my 
queen. 

ALICE : Will I wear a crown? 

BURR : Yes. 

ALICE : And sit on a throne? 

BURR : Assuredly. 

ALICE: Won't that be grand? I'll invite all my 
friends to come and make me a visit, except that Blenner- 
hassett woman. 

BURR : Oh, she goes on with us. 

ALICE: {Rising.) Must I divide the honors with 
her? 

BURR: Of course not. As empress you take prece- 
dence over her; though a duchess, she'll be a mere ambas- 
sador's lady. 

ALICE: Is that all? {Xing L to C.) Well, won't I 
make her keep her distance! 

BURR: {R C.) I thought she was your most intimate 
friend. 

ALICE: Not since she turned my father against you. 

BURR : I fear that took little effort on her part. 

ALICE : Nevertheless she did her best to break it off 



47 

between us. Tell me, Aaron, was there ever anything be- 
tween you and that woman? 

BUER: What do you mean? 

ALICE: {tiharpli/.) You know well enough what I 
mean, sir ! Did you ever have a love affair with Margaret 
Blennerhassett ? 

BUKR : Why do you ask such a ridiculous question? 

ALICE: Oh, 1 don't know; for a woman's reason, I 
suppose, — ^just because. 

BURR: {Xing L to Alice C.) You wrong us both, I 
assure you ; Mrs. Blennerhassett and I are good friends, — 
nothing more. 

ALICE : Y"ou love no one but me? 

BURR: {Embracing Alice.) On my honor, no! Do 
you doubt it, sweetheart? 

ALICE: No; but I like to have you tell me so; your 
love means so much to me. 

BURR : Then promise me you'll take it without ques- 
tion. 

ALICE: Y^es, Burr, I will. You're the only one I've 
left to put my trust in ; I'm alone in the world now. 

BURR : But not for long. When will you be my wife? 
It's for you to name the day. 

ALICE: {Burying her head on Burr's shoulder.) Per- 
haps under the circumstances the sooner the better. 

BURR : And we'll spend our honeymoon floating down 
the river to the mouth of the Cumberland, where a corps 
of worthies are waiting for me to lead them into Mexico. 

ALICE : With you by my side I could float on forever. 
{Disengaging herself from Burr, as if suddenly recollect- 
ing.) But my father? 

BURR: What of him? 

ALICE : After I leave here I may never see him again. 
He's always been so good to me, and we never had a dif- 
ference till now. 

BURR: I hope you're not sorry that I came between 
you. 

ALICE : Forgive me, Burr, I didn't mean to reproach 
you; but he parted from me in anger, {Begins to sob.) 

BURR : Y^'ou were not to blame. 

ALICE : I know. Yet aside from his dislike for yon, 
father's a dear, kind man. 



48 

BURR. {Attempting to soothe Alice.) I haven't a 
doubt of it. 

ALICE : I know you'd like him if you only knew him a 
little better. 

BURR: I can't altogether blame him for disliking me; 
what father could give up such a daughter without hating 
the man who stole her from him? 

Filter Mrs. Blennerliassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : ( To Alice, Xing over L to R C.) Heigho ! 
Crying already. Plenty of time for that after marriage, 
my dear. 

(Burr Xes up L to fire place L S E.) 

ALICE: I trust, Margaret, you don't speak from ex- 
perience. 

MRS. BLEN: Quite the contrary, for my husband is 
an exception to the general run of men. But there! Go 
right on with your love making ; don't mind me. My con- 
gratulations to you both. 

BURR: So you've heard the good news? 

ALICE : Perhaps Mrs. Blennerhassett won't call our 
engagement good news. 

MRS. BLEN : What does it matter to me? As a well- 
meaning friend, I advised you against Burr. {Xing L to 
Alice C.) But as you've made up your mind to take him, 
I hope, my dear, you'll be as happy as my good wishes can 
make you. {Kisses Alice.) 

ALICE: {With formality.) That's so sweet of you. 

MRS. BLEN: And since you've broken with your 
father, make this house your home while we remain here. 

ALICE : Thank you very much ; but I trust I'll not 
impose on your hospitality for long. 

BURR : {Up L.) No, for we start down the river very 
shortly. 

MRS. BLEN: {To Alice.) You know I'm going, too? 

ALICE: So Burr was saying; I'm so glad to hear it. 
{Xes over L.) 

MRS. BLEN: {The ensning conversation 'between the 
women carried on in a 'bantering way. ) Surely you're not 
going to leave me alone with Burr? 

ALICE: Oh yes; I'm not afraid to trust you, — for a 
little while. 



49 
Exit Alice Morgan^ L 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: (C\) Spiteful thing! 

BUKR: {Up L.) Don't be vexed with the poor girl. 

MRS. BLEN : "Girl !" She's not much of a girl ; she's 
almost as old as I am, and I tell you, sir, this "girl," as 
you call her, suspects us. 

BURR : What makes you think so? 

MRS. BLEN: Her manner toward me, for one thing; 
she only left the room because I came in. 

BURR: Imagination, Margaret. Alice is only at outs 
with you for talking against me. 

MRS. BLEN: I'm sure I hope you're right about it; 
but I fear not. 

BURR: {Coming down to Mrs. Blen C.) Don't be 
uneasy, madam. Suppose Alice suspects, — suppose they 
all suspect, — you know I'll not betray you. 

MRS. BLEN : I hope not. I've paid penalty enough 
already for being such a fool as to have ever thought my- 
self in love with you. {Xes R to R C.) 

BURR: I vow you're not overly complimentary. 

MRS. BLEN : The time for pretty speeches between us 
is over. 

BURR : We had to break with one another sooner or 
later. 

MRS. BLEN: And the sooner the better. So before 
you marry, and have that "girl" rummaging through your 
things, give me back my letters. 

BURR : Letters are dangerous things to have about; I 
destroyed them long ago. 

MRS. BLEN : How considerate. But I kept yours ; I 
couldn't find it in my heart to burn them. 

BURR: It wouldn't be the first love affair that has 
gone up in smoke. Take my advice and destroy them; 
bury the past, and face the world with a light heart again. 

MRS. BLEN: {^eating herself R of table R C.) I 
only wish I could. 

BURR : And why not? Your good name is safe in my 
keeping. 

MRS. BLEN: That won't bring me back to ray peace 
of mind. Too late I see the difference between an honest 
husband's love and your empty flattery, to which I was 
only too willing to listen. 



50 

BUER: If you feel that way, I should think you'd be 
glad to be rid of me. 

MKS. BLEN : I am, for I hate you, Aaron Burr, now 
that my eyes are opened, and I see you only pretended 
love for me, so I would persuade my husband to back your 
enterprise. 

BURE: {Xing i? to Mrs. Blen. B C.) You wrong me 
there; have I not advanced his fortunes along with my 
ow^n? 

MES. BLEN: That remains to be seen; I only wish he 
was well out of it all. 

BUEE: I promise you Blennerhassett shall lose noth- 
ing through his connection with me, {Seats himself L of 
table. ) 

MES. BLEN : Can you undo what's done, and make me 
worthy of his love? {Knocking at outer door of L. Burr 
signs Mrs. Blen to he silent. A brief pause.) 

Enter Graham, R 4 E. 

MRS. BLEN: {Picking up book of table, as Graham 
Xes up over L to door.) Have you read this; it's awfully 
exciting? 

BUEE: No, what is it? 

MES. BLEN: It is called "Meditations on a Tomb 
Stone."' 

Exit Graham, L C.) 

BUEE : That nigger of yours is still on the lookout. 
MRS. BLEN : You haven't found out what he's after. 
BURR : No, but I will ; never fear. 

Enter Morgan, Widow Brown- re-enter Graham, L C. 

MRS. BLEN: {Rising toith Burr.) What! Col. Mor- 
gan in the stronghold of the enemy! Are you the bearer 
of a flag of truce, sir? 

WIDOW B. : {Coming down to L.) Yes, mum, he is; 
I've been tellin' him 'tain't Christian-like of him to turn 
against his own flesh and blood. 

MORGAN: {Coming down to C.) And she's right 
about it, mum; so let's let bygones be bybones. What 



51 

d'ye say, Burr? 

BURR: {Xing L to Morgan C.) With all my heart. 
I assure you, sir, you've done the one thing needful to 
make your daughter's happiness complete. {They shake 
hands.) 

MORGAN: {To Graham, ivho has remained up L C.) 
Here, you! Tell my darter I want to see her. {Graham 
comes down L.) 

MRS. BLEN : I'll leave you while you kiss and make 
up all around. 

MORGAN : Don't go, mum. 

MRS. BLEN: {Going; Xing R.) Yes. I don't wish to 
intrude on this happy family party.) 

Exit Graham, L 2 E. 

BURR: {Xing R to R C.) Can't you congratulate us 
on this general reconciliation? 

MRS. BLEN: (J?.) I'll save my congratulations till 
I see how long it will last. 

Exit Mrs. Blennerhassett, R2 E. 

BURR : I assure you, sir, it will last with me, for I'm 
only too happy to be formally accepted as your son-in-law. 

WIDOW B. : {Seating herself on sofa L.) I had a 
pretty tough tussel to bring him around to it. 

MORGAN : Wal, I tell ye right out. Burr, you ain't 
the man I'd picked out for Alice, but I'm goin' to make 
the best of a bad bargain. 

BURR : Yo'll not regret it, sir ; I promise you I'll make 
your daughter a good husband. 

WIDOW B. : Save your promises till after you've been 
married a while. 

Enter Alice, L 2 E. 

ALICE: {Xing R to Morgan C.) Dear old dad! I 
knew you'd come over to bid me good-bye. 

MORGAN : Yes, my dear, for Burr and I has made up, 
and I want to give you my blessing before you start galli- 
vantin' 'round the country. {Kisses Alice.) 

ALICE: {To Burr.) Didn't I tell you, sir, what a 



52 

good heart lie had? 

BURR: Yes, and he'd make any sacrifice for your hap- 
piness, — even to giving you to me. 

ALICE : {Xing R to Burr R C.) Say rather that now 
that father knows you better, he sees for himself what a 
good man you ai'e. 

MORGAN: Indeed not! I'm just puttin' up with him 
on your account. 

WIDOW B.: {Rising.) Stop talking to the girl 
'gainst her sweetheart, Morgan; remember she's as much 
my darter now as she is yours. 

ALICE : W^hat do you mean? 

WIDOW B. : You tell her. Paw. 

MORGAN: {In eniharrassfuent, Xing L to Widow B. 
seated L.) Wal, ye see, darter, knowin' I'd be left all 
alone, I up and popped the question to the widder here. 

WIDOW B. : {Taking Morgan's hand.) And I said 
"yes." 

ALICE : Father ! Do you mean to tell me you're going 
to be married? 

W^IDOW B. : We're married already; we've just come 
from the parson's. 

BURR : {Xing LtoC.) Then pray accept my heartiest 
congratulations, and may you both be happy. 

WIDOW B. : We're like enough to be happy if experi- 
ence goes for anything. Morgan ain't my fust, and I ain't 
his." 

BURR: And I dare say a woman of experience can 
make a good second husband out of an average first. 

W^IDOW B. : I don't know about that ; you can't tell 
how a man'll turn out till you've tried him. 

ALICE : But you're evidently willing to take chances, 

MORGAN : Don't flare up at your new maw, Alice, 
she'll be a second mother to you. 

ALICE : But I don't want a second mother. 

WIDOW B.: Land sakes! I hope I don't look old 
enough to be your real maw. 

MORGAN: There ye go! I might a known you two'd 
begin fightin' 'fore ye got round to the kissin', 

BURR: {Going up to L C.) Come out and have a 
smoke. My word for it, if we leave them together they'll 
come to an understanding:. 



53 

MORGAN: No! The only way to get on is to keep 
the wiiumen folks apart, {Going up to Widow B.) If 
you're coming with me, come on ! 

WIDOW B. : Walk around with Burr and cool off, 
Paw. 

BURR: Yes, come on, sir. {Goes out.) 

MORGAN: {At door L C.) No! I'm goin' right 
home. {To Widow B.) Gome on, mum! {Goes out after 
Burr, slamming the door.) 

Exeunt Burr, Morgan L C. 

WIDOW B.: That's the thanks folks generally get 
when they try to smooth things over. 

ALICE: The truth about it all is you only wanted 
father reconciled to my marriage so I'd be out of the way. 

WIDOW B. : {Xing B to C.) As far as that goes, your 
paw's been pesterin' me for the last two years to marry 
him. 

ALICE: Why didn't you? A better man never lived. 

WIDOW B. : 'Cording to my experience men are all 
about alike. One's lacking here, another there, but in the 
long run they're pretty much the same. Besides, I 
wasn't in any hurry for number two, knowin' you and I'd 
never .get on together. 

Enter Morgan, L C. 

MORGAN: {Patting his head in at the door L G.) 
Be ye comin' or not, ma'am? 

W^IDOW B. : ( Going up. ) Yes ; I'll be right there. 
MORGAN: Come on, then; I can't wait all day. 

Exit Morgan, L C, as before. 

ALICE: {Going up to Widow B. up C.) Don't let's 
quarrel and part bad friends now that I'm leaving here so 
soon. {Knocking at door of L.) 

WIDOW B. : {Enibracing Alice.) 'Course not, honey, 
and I'll take good care of yer paw, though you know with 
his temper I won't always be lyin' in a bed of roses. 



54 
Eenter Graham, R 4^ E. 

ALICE : I don't think his couch will be entirely free of 
thorns. {Comes down to L, as Graham Xes up over L at 
rear to door L C.) But I'll not stay here to quarrel with 
you. 

WIDOW B.: Well just you wait; you'll find out for 
yourself married life ain't all kisses. 

Exit Graham L A. 

ALICE: (L.) Then I'll be provident, and lay by a 
goodly store for a rainy day. 

Exit Alice L 2 E. 

(Widow B. goes angrily up, and opens door L. C) 

Enter Daviess, re-enter Graham, L C. 

DAVIESS: {To Graham.) Ask Mistress Morgan if I 
can see her, 

{Graham comes down to L.) 

WIDOW B. : What d'ye want with her, Joe, now she's 
given you the mitten? 

DAVIESS: {Coming down to R C.) As I first told 
Burr, even though I can't win her for myself, I hope to 
prevent her marrying him. 

Exit Graham, L 2 E. 

WIDOW B. : {Coming doivn to up C.) 'Tain't no use 
for you to try; when a gal once makes up her mind she 
wants a certain feller she's goin' to have him. 

DAVIESS: Not if I show this man up in his true 
colors. 

WIDOW B. : No matter what colors you show him up 
in, he'll always look like a rainbow to her. 

Enter Morgan, L C. 

MORGAN: {Up L C, as hefore.) For the last time, 
marm, be ye a comin' with me? 

WIDOW B. : {Going up.) Yes, — wait a minute. 



55 
MORGAN : No ! Not a second ! 

Ewit Morgan^ L C, as before. 

WIDOW B.: {To Daviess.) He's the most even tem- 
pered man I ever saw. 

DAVIESS : Indeed ! 

WIDOW B. : Yes, he's mad all the time. 

Enter Graham, L 2 E. 

GRAHAM: {Standing L to Daviess.) Mis Alice be 
right in, sah. 

Exit Widow Brown, L C. 

GRAHAM: See here, Daviess! Don't you mix up in 
this; you leave Burr to me. 

DAVIESS : I'm not going to see Alice married off to a 
man who like as not is going to be hanged. {Xing L to C.) 

GRAHAM : {Going up to fireplace L S E.) Why not? 
You won't have to wait long for his widow. 

DAVIESS : Burr can go to the devil for all I care, but 
he shan't have Mistress Morgan for company. 

GRAHAM : I dare say you'd be glad enough to send 
him there if he left the girl behind for you; and I hope 
he'll find enough brimstone down there to keep him in 
matches, for I swear I can't. {Takes stand of matches 
off mantel L Z E, and Xes up over R to table R C.) 

DAVIESS : You think he'd smoke enough for once? 

GRAHAM: Yes, but he wouldn't mind it a bit; a man 
trying to make love to two women at once has his hell here 
on earth. 

DAVIESS: What do you mean? 

GRAHAM: That before Burr cut you out with that 
Morgan girl he was making up to Mrs. Blennerhassett. 
{Places matches on tahle R C.) 

DAVIESS : "Mrs Blennerhassett?" You must be mis- 
taken ! 

GRAHAM: No. I tell you, I overheard their love- 
making in this very room, and had a close shave from 
being caught behind that door. {Indicating door R 4: E.) 

DAVIESS: Even if what you say is true, Burr and 
Mrs. Blennerhassett would both deny it, and their word 
would go further than that of a government spy, blacked 



56 

up like a nigger. 

GKAHAM: You don't have to take my word for it. 
Here are some letters I found in Mrs. Blennerliassett's 
writing desk. {Producing letters and Xing over L to 
Daviess C.) If the Morgan girl saw these it ought to set- 
tle Burr with her. {Offers Daviess letters.) 

DAVIESS: I'll not be the one to show them to her; I 
prefer to win the lady fairly rather than stoop to such a 
trick as that. {Xes R to R G.) 

GRAHAM: Oh, just as you please; only I don't think 
there'll be much of a secret about it after that old fool 
Blennnerhassett reads them. {Replaces letters in his 
pocket. ) 

DAVIESS : Surely you don't intend to show them to 
him? 

GRAHAM : If there's no other way to break this thing 
up,— yes. 

DAVIESS : That puts a different complexion on the 
matter, though I can't see how those letters have any 
bearing on the government's case against Burr. 

GRAHAM : Do you suppose Blennerhassett would put 
his money into this expedition if he knew how matters 
stood between his wife and Burr? 

DAVIESS : No, — of course not. 

GRAHAM : Then, if we can't convict Burr, the only 
thing to do is to break up his expedition. When I show 
those letters to Blennerhassett he'll pull out of it, and as 
Burr has no money left, the whole thing is sure to col- 
lapse. 

Enter Alice Morgan, L 2 E. 

ALICE: (L.) Why, Joe Daviess! I'm so glad to see 
you. 

DAVIESS : I sincerely hope you mean it. 

{Graham goes up over L to fireplace L S E^ and under 
pretense of lighting the fire listens to the conuersation.) 

ALICE: {Xing R to G.) Of course I do; some, Joe, 
forgive our little tiff of yesterday and wish me happiness. 
{Holds out her hand.) 

DAVIESS: {Taking Alice's hand.) It's because I am 
your sincerest wisher that I beg of you not to throw your- 
self away on this adventurer. 



57 

ALICE : ( Wrenching her hand free from Daviess' 
grasp.) If you're going to begin harping on Mr. Burr, I 
declare I'll leave the room. 

DAVIESS : You can't have much confidence in him if 
you fear to hear anything to his discredit. 

ALICE: (L. C.) If hearing what his detractors say be 
the measure of my confidence, say on sir. {Xing over L 
to L, and seeing Graham.) But I'll not have my private 
affairs discussed before servants. What are you putter- 
ing about for, John? 

GRAHAM : {At fireplace LS E.) De missus done tole 
me to light de fiah, ma'ah. 

ALICE : Then hurry about it and leave the room. 

GRAHAM: Yes'm. {Lights the fire.) Am dere any- 
t'ing else you want, ma'am? 

ALICE : No. 

GRAHAM: {To Daviess.) Am dere anyt'ing ye want, 
sah? 

DAVIESS : Yes,— get out ! 

GRAHAM : Yes, sah. 

Exit Graham. 

ALICE : Now, then, sir, I'll hear what you have to say. 
{Seating herself on sofa L.) Though you're lil^e to waste 
your time talking against Burr. 

DAVIESS: Indeed! And who is Aaron Burr? {Xing 
over L to L.) A crownless king, — a penniless prince, — 
without home, — employment, — income, — an unprincipled, 
broken down adventurer, whose wit has been sharpened on 
the grindstone of adversity. 

ALICE: You'd better say all that to Burr, — if you 
dare. 

DAVIESS : I've already done so; — now I want to warn 
you against him. 

ALICE: "Warn me!" Of what? 

DAVIESS : To be quits with him and leave him to his 
fate, before he drags you down with him. 

ALICE: You think to frighten me with your threats? 

DAVIESS : Believe me, Alice, these are no idle 
threats. Burr is ahout to make a desperate attempt to 
retrieve his fallen fortunes, and his safety, — his very life, 
— is at stake. 



58 

ALICE: You talk in generalities; what's he about to 
do? 

DAVIESS : He's planning nothing less than to over- 
throw our government, split up the union, and make him- 
self a king. It's high treason against the United States, 
and he's like to pay for it with his life. 

ALICE: {Rising.) So then, Joe Daviess, you'll have 
the law on Burr just because you think he cut you out 
with me. {Pleadingly.) 13ut he didn't; really he didn't, 
Joe. I never thought of you in the way you'd have me. 

DAVIESS: {Xing R to V.) I'm not your discarded 
lover, but an officer of the government in this affair, and 
have no choice but to do my duty. 

ALICE: {Xing R to Daviess C.) If that's your final 
answer, sir, let me tell you that I'm as guilty as Burr, for, 
come what will, we're both in this, share and share alike. 

DAVIESS : I wish to hear nothing that will drag you 
into this miserable business, Alice; I'll save you in spite 
of yourself, only promise me you'll give this man up. 

ALICE : No! {Xing R to R C.) If he's in trouble, all 
the more reason why I should stand by him. 

DAVIESS: AVhat are you going to do? 

ALICE : Warn him of his danger, and together we'll 
be off down the river within an hour. 

DAVIESS : But I tell you he's a conspirator against 
the government; an enemy to the United States. 

ALICE : I know nothing of such things ; I leave poli- 
tics to you men. 

DAVIESS : If you warn him you'll get in trouble 
yourself. 

ALICE : Then we'll share it together, for I go with him. 
( Going ^ Xing R to R.) 

DAVIESS: {Xing R to R C.) Would you give your- 
self over into the keeping of a man like Burr? 

ALICE: {R.) And why not? 

DAVIESS: Because he cares nothing for you; he's in 
love with another woman. 

ALICE: You lie! 

DAVIESS: No! I speak the truth. 

ALICE : Do you think I'll take it for granted, just be- 
cause you say so? 

DAVIESS: I don't ask you to; some letters of Burr's 
will be brought to light shortly in spite of anything I can 



59 

say or do, and then you'll see for yourself. 

ALICE: {Xing L to Daviess R C.) And the woman; 
who is she? 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: {After an embarrassing pause.) I hope 
I'm not in the way? 

ALICE: {R. C.) Not at alL We're only gossiping, — 
in fact, talking a bit of scandal. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing L to R C.) Why is it scandal 
must be the topic of every virtuous woman's conversa- 
tion. Come, sit down and tell me all about it. {Seats 
herself R of table and motions Alice to a chair.) 

ALICE: {Seating herself L of table.) There's not 
much to tell, only I've just heard that Burr's in love with 
another woman 

MRS. BLEN: Already? 

ALICE : You don't seem much surprised. 

MRS. BLEN : ( With perfect self -composure. ) Not 
overly so. Men are faithless creatures, my dear, though I 
really thought you could trust even Burr till after the 
honeymoon. But tell me, who is the woman? 

DAVIESS: {At fire L ^ E.) It's hardly fair to drag 
her name into it. 

MRS. BLEN: Oh, of course not; just like a man to 
shield a woman. But I think you might tell me; I'll not 
repeat it to a soul, and it's so provoking to pique my curi- 
osity. 

ALICE: {Rising.) Don't be impatient, Margaret; if 
it turns out there's any truth in this I'll tell you who 
she is. 

MRS. BLEN : What ! Do you know ! 

ALICE: No, but I've my suspicions. {Xing L to C.) 

MRS. BLEN: You must have stronger evidence than 
that, my dear. 

ALICE : Trust a woman to get at the bottom of things 
where her affections are concerned. 

MRS. BLEN: But Burr'll deny it, of course; he's good 
at denving things. 

DAVIESS: (Coming down to L.) I dare say he'd 
perjure himself, as a gentleman should, to save a lady's 
reputation. 



60 

MRS. BLEN : Oh, you men ! If things are as they say, 
it's not worth saving, and besides I'm dying to find out 
who she is. 

Enter Burr, L. C. 

BURR: {Up L C.) What, Master Daviess! Still try- 
ing to convince this lady of my un worthiness? 

DAVIESS : Yes, but you'll know soon enough the gist 
of what I've been saying about you. 

BURR : When next you go a-wooing, sir, be sure of the 
lady before you get the father's permission to pay your 
addresses. (Coming down to Alice C.) But let me hope 
in any event, Alice, that your confidence is not shaken; 
that you believe in me still. 

ALICE : At any rate I'll give you the benefit of the 
doubt until I hear you in your own defense. 

DAVIESS : ( To Burr; going. ) You'll have a chance to 
vindicate yourself, — and that shortly. 

Enter Monongahela Pete, L C. 

PETE: Any orders today. Cap? 
BURR: No, nothing, Pete. 

Ecoit Daviess, L 2 E. 

ALICE: {To Pete, who is ahout to leave; going up 
L (J.) Wait! {To Burr.) You must make preparations 
to get away from here as soon as possible. 

BURR : I vow you do me too much honor in being so 
eager to start with me down the river on our honeymoon. 

ALICE : It's not that. I Avant you to leave here be- 
cause Daviess is after you with the law, and you must get 
safely away before he puts you under arrest. 

BURR: That is providing I'm willing to be arrested, 
and I hardly think I will be. 

ALICE : But to be on the safe side order your men to 
ge things ready so you can start at once. 

BURR : I'll do it to satisfy you, sweetheart, as there's 
no need to stay here any longer. ( To Pete. ) Are some of 
the boys with you, Pete? 

PETE: Yes, Cap'. Snag, Kaintuck and Flat Boat 



61 

Bill's waitin' for me at the door. 
BURR: Call them in. 
PETE : Sure, Cap. 

Ecpit Pete. L C. 

BURR: {To Alice.) I assure you, Alice, there is m)t 
the slightest ground for apprehension on my account, 

ALICE: Don't make light of it. Burr; I beg of you to 
quit this place at once. 

Re-enter Pete; Enter Snag Sawyer^ Kaintuck, Flat Boat 
BiUj L C. 

PETE : Here we be. Cap'; what do you want? 

BURR: Go up to my room at the head of the stairs 
and bring down my chest. 

PETE: Come on, boys. {Xing over up R, followed hy 
the others.) That all ye want, Cap? 

BURR: Yes, but look around carefully and see that 
nothing is left behind. 

PETE : We'll take care of that. Cap'. We won't leave 
nothin' of your'n behind. 

Exenut Monongahela Pete, Snag Saioyer, Kaintuck, Flat 
Boat Bill; R 4. E, 

ALICE: I hardly thought so soon to be glad you're 
going. 

BURR: {Going up to Alice up L C.) But not alone, — 
you'll come with me? {Alice hesitates.) You hesitate! 
Believe me, whatever charges Daviess makes against me 
are only for the purpose of trying to bring about a break 
between us. {Attempts to fondle Alice, who avoids him, 
and comes doivn L to L.) At least tell me of what I am 
accused? 

MRS. BLEN: {Rising.) Of being in love with me! 

ALICE : I've made no such charge, madam. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing L to C.) As though it were 
necessary ! Do you think I'm so dull as not to have seen 
through your thinly veiled allusions a bit ago. But you've 
gone a step too far at last, and you'll prove this story or 
take the consequences ! 



62 

ALICE: (Going.) And at the same time I'll satisfy 
my own peace of mind. I only hope for both our sakes 
there's no truth in it all. 

Ewit Alice Morgan, L 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : Well, I hope you're convinced at last 
that this ''girl" has some inkling into our affairs, and 
we're about to pay dearly for our folly. 

BUKK: Naturally enough if you go on accusing your- 
self. How could you have been so indiscreet, Margaret? 

MKiS. BLEN : The only thing I could do was to put on 
a bold front. 

BURR: Leave all that to me; I'll meet any charges 
brought against us. 

MRS. BLEN : That's well enough to say, but I tell you, 
Burr, I'm ruined, — disgraced! It'll all come out, and 
when my husband learns the truth he'll divorce me. 

BURR: Who'll tell him? Certainly neither of us. 

MRS. BLEN : Your letters speak for themselves. 

BURR: Then take my advice and destroy them. 

MRS. BLEN : So I intended to do, but when I went to 
look for them a while ago they were gone. 

BURR : They must be lost, — mislaid. 

MRS. BLEN : No ; for to make sure I searched my room 
high and low, but they were not to be found. 

BURR : They must have been taken by someone having 
access to your room. 

MRS. BLEN: But who? 

BURR: The one I've had my suspicions of all along; 
that eavesdropping nigger of yours, more than likely, 

MRS. BLEN: Impossible! What would he want with 
them? 

BURR : (Xhig up over R to fahJe R C. ) That's wluit I 
propose to find out. 

MRS. BLEN: But what are you going to do? 

BURR : Have him in, and if he has them make him give 
them up before they can be used against us. 

MRS. BLEN: But how? 

BURR: That'll depend on circumstances; but I'll find 
a way, never fear. Don't be uneasy, Margaret; rest as- 
sured I'll get you out of this. 

MRS. BLEN: I hope so with all my heart, for I de- 



63 

clare I'm the most miserable woman alive. If I ever get 
well out of this scrape I'll never get into another. 

BURR: Ah, madam, were it not for the fear of being 
found out the world would be a much worse place than it 
is. {Mrs. Bleu Xes R to R C, lays hand on Burrs arm, 
and points to door R 4: E. Burr goes cautiously up to 
door R 4: E, jerks it suddenly open, and Graham, who has 
heen listening at the key hole, loses his balance, and stum- 
bles into the room.) 

Enter Graham, R i E. 

BURR: {Seizing Graham by the ear.) Listening, eh? 

GRAHAM: Lem'me go, Massa Burr; I ain't done nuf- 
fin, sah. 

BURR: {Leading Graham down to table R C by the 
ear, as Mrs. Blen., in much agitation, Xes over L, and seats 
herself on sofa L.) Don't try to lie out of it; I caught you 
this time. 

GRAHAM. ( Struggling to free himself from Burr. ) I 
was just comin' in when you opened the door; 'deed and 
double I was, sah. 

BURR: {Releasing Graham, and looking at his fin- 
gers. ) How's this ! You're losing your complexion. I've 
rubbed some of that black skin of yours otf on my fingers. 

GRAHAM : It's do seet, sah ; I'se been cleanin' out de 
chimney flues. 

BURR: Oh, that's it; well, light my cigar and I'll let 
you go for this time. {Seats himself at table.) 

GRAHAM : Yes, sah. ( Graham's manner shoivs sus- 
picions on Burrs intentions, but there is nothing for him 
to do but brave it out. He strikes a match and as he is 
bending over lighting Burros cigar, latter takes out his 
ha)idkcrchief, and n-ith a quick movement rubs it over 
Graham's face, showing the tvhite skin beneath.) 

BURR: {Rising.) So you're a white man, and not a 
nigger, after all? 

GRAHAM. {Dropping negro dialect.) Yes. I'm John 
Graham of the United States Secret Service, and you're 
my prisoner. (Lays hand on Burr's shoulder.) 

BURR: Hands off! (Shaking Graham off. and Xing 
L to C.) Do you think I'm fool enough to go with you? 

GRAHAM : You'll have to. ( Taking proclamation from 



64 

his pocket.) Here's a proclamation from the president, 
ordering 3^oiir arrest as a conspirator against the govern- 
ment. 

BURR: What do I care for one of Tom Jefferson's 
long-winded proclamations? 

GRAHAM: There's no use in putting up a fight; you 
might as well come along quietly. 

BURR: Hark'ee ye Master Graham; I've 50 desperate 
men down by the river who'd follow me into the very jaws 
of hell ! If I told them you were a government spy, they'd 
make short work of you, and throw you in the river. 

GRAHAM : Don't think to frighten me, Burr, for that's 
a game that two can play at ! Make a move for help, and 
I'll tell Blennerhassett you're in love with his wife! {Mrs. 
Blen rises in agitation.) 

BURR: {Xing R to Graham R C.) You thief! Give 
me back those letters you stole from this lady's room. 
{Lays hands on Graham.) 

GRAHAM: Don't try that on! {Shaking Burr off.) 
If you want these letters you'll come to my terms ! 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing R to L C.) Name your price; 
how^ much do you want? 

GRAHAM: {Xing L to C.) Money won't buy 'em, 
ma'am. {Producing letters.) If you want them back, 
and also save your husband from being hanged along with 
Burr, tell me all you know about this business. 

MRS. BLEN: Burr was the prime mover; Mr. Blen- 
nerhassett had no active hand in the matter. 

BURR: Quite right, madam; like a good wife, save 
your husband, even if it's necessary to hang me in order 
to do so. 

MRS. BLEN: I can't help that; we've come to trouble 
enough already through you. 

BURR : But shifting the blame onto me won't help 
matters ; this fellow has no authority to pardon your hus- 
band. 

GRAHAM: (To Mrs. Blen.) But I swear to give him 
these letters unless you make a clean breast of it all. 

Enter Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

BLEN: (E.)' What's this loud talking about; what 
does it mean? 



65 

BURR: (R. C.) It means, sir, that this pretended 
servant of yours is a government spy. 

BLEN: {In alarm, Xing L to R C.) Can it be? Is 
this true, John? 

GRAHAM : (C.) Yes, but don't be alarmed, sir; you'll 
come to no harm if you do as I tell you. [Replaces letters 
in his pocket.) 

BURR: {To Bleu.) Take care what you say to this 
man. 

GRAHAM : {To Blen.) And I warn you against Burr 
and his schemes; stick to him, and you'll get yourself in 
trouble. {Goes up and locks door up L C unopened.) 

BURR: You've no choice but to stand by me, sir; it's 
too late now to beat a retreat. 

BLEN: {To Mrs. Bleu.) What would you do, Mar- 
garet? 

MRS. BLEN: {Who has remained standing L C, con- 
trolling her agitation. ) Take Master Graham's advice and 
give up this mad enterprise, which is certain of failure 
now that its object is known, 

BURR: Not so! Failure is impossible if we push 
things right ahead. {Xing over L to C.) We'll start at 
once, and be well down the river, and out of harm's way, 
before this democratic bulldog Jefferson can reach out a 
hand to stop us. 

MRS. BLEN: Speak for yourself. Burr; I follow yon 
no further in this affair. 

BURR: {To Blen.) Then if you prefer it, sir, stay 
here and be hanged ; I'm off down the river. 

GRAHAM : ( Up L (J. ) No ! You're coming with me. 

BURR : With a boat load of men within call do you 
think I'll let you drag me off to rot in a country jail? 

GRAHAM : Yes, or take the consequences. 

BLEN: {To Burr.) What a fool I w^as to have ever 
gone into this with you. 

BURR : Don't be downcast; recollect, sir, in two months 
I'll be an Emperor, and you'll be my ambassador to Eng- 
land. 

GRAHAM : If you go on with this expedition I'll guar- 
antee you'll both be hanged by that time. 

BLEN : Between you, I'm bound to be hanged no mat- 
ter what I do. {does up R.) 



66 

BUEE: Make jourself easy on that score, sir; when 
we're ready to leave here I'll engage that Master Graham 
doesn't hinder us. 

GEAHAM : ( Coming down to L C.) You can't go on 
without Blennerhassett, and I don't think he'll put his 
money in with you after I've shown him your letters. {To 
Mrs. Blcn.) Do you, madam? 

MES. BLEN: No! [Xing R to C.) Go with him. 
Burr. 

BUEE: And give up my plans in the southwest, — 
forego my dream of empire? 

MES. BLEN: Yes. Eecollect my happiness, — my 
reputation, — everything a woman holds dear depends on 
your getting back those letters. {Xcs over R to R C.) 

BUEE : ( To Graham. ) Then give them to me, and I'm 
your prisoner. 

GEAHAM : I don't haye to make terms with you, for 
you can't carry this business through without the old man. 

Enter Daviess, Alice, LIE. 

BUEE: But if when I tell my people they have to 
thank you for my failure you'll be lucky to get off with 
your life. {Xing L to Graham L C.) Gome, give me the 
letters; you'll make better terms with me than with my 
men. 

GEAHAM: If I do, will you come along quietly with 
me, and not give the alarm? 

BUEE: Yes, providing you've ke]3t matters to your- 
self. 

ALICE: (L ivitli Daviess.) Are you bartering for the 
return of some love letters, sir? 

BUEE: No; they are entirely business matters, on my 
word of honor. 

ALICE: {To Daviess.) Which of you is telling me 
the truth? 

DAVIESS: Judge for yourself as to that. {To Gra- 
ham^ Xing R to L <J.) Hand over those letters. 

BUEE: {Snatching letters from Graham.) No! Give 
them to me! 

DAVIESS : They may throw some light on your de- 
signs on Mexico, and as United States District Attorney, I 
demand to see them in the name of the law ! 



67 

BUER: {Going up to fire L S E.) They're in my 
possession now, and that's nine points of the law. {Da- 
viess hurries up L to intercept Burr, hut before he reaches 
him latter throws letters in the fire and Xes up L to L C.) 
Now, I'm your prisoner, Master Graham. {Graham goes 
up to Burr C L.) 

ALICE: One moment! {Xing R to C, and addressing 
Mrs. Blen.) Will you allow this man to be dragged off to 
jail when a word from you will save him! 

BLEN: {Coming down to R C.) What do you mean? 

ALICE : That I'm convinced now these were love letters 
from Burr to your wife and had no bearing on his affairs 
in the southwest. 

BLEN: {To Mrs. Blen.) Margaret, tell this woman 
she lies! 

MRS. BLEN: (TT7to lias remained standing R C, in 
much agitation.) No, husband, forgive me, but she speaks 
the truth. {Alice Xes L to L.) 

BURR: {Coming down to C.) But I was entirely to 
blame, sir; I forced my attentions on your wife, hoping 
through her influence to get you to back my enterprise. 

Enter Monongahela Pete, Snag Sawyer, Kaintack,Flat 
Boat Bill R4:E. 

BLEN : {As the four boatmen set down the chest ichich 
they are carrying and stand up R.) And make me your 
tool in your effort to split up the union, and be king over 
us all ! But I'll have nothing more to do with you or your 
schemes, and if you go on with this filibustering expedi- 
tion, you'll play out your game of treason alone! (Xes R 
to R.\ 

DAVIESS: {Coming down to Burr at C.) No. The 
game goes no further! For on your partner's confession, 
Aaron Burr, I arrest you for treason! {Lays hand on 
B u rr's shon Ider. ) 

BURR: If there's any arresting to be done, I'll do it 
mvself. {To the boatmen.) Here, boys! Seize these men. 
{The four boatmen come down on Daviess and Graham.) 

(tRAHAM: {R C.) You agreed to give yourself m>! 

BURR : But as yon dragged the lady into this affair, 
I see no need of sacrificing myself. {To the boatmen.) 



68 

Away with them, boys ! 

DAVIESS: (A*? Pete and Saivycr lay hands on him, 
and drag him up to R C, Graham in custody of Kainttuck 
and Bill up L C.) What are you going to do with us? 

BURK: (0.) Hold you both and keep you prisoners 
till I get safe away from here. 

{Final disposition of characters at fall of curtain: Burr 
C. Mrs. Blen., R C. Bleu., R. Alice, L. Daviess, Pete 
and Sawyer, up R G. Graham, Kaintuck and Bill upt 
LG.) 

CURTAIN. 



69 



ACT 4. 



THE SCENE : Exterior. Same as Act 1. No one dis- 
covered at rise of curtain. Momentary pause. 



Enter Col. Morgan, Widow Brown, L. U. E. 

MOEGAN: {Following Widow B. up over R.) Don't 
be in no hurry, marm; let's have a kiss 'fore we see the 
follis. 

WIDOW B.: [Up G loltli Morgan,) Plenty of time 
for that Morgan ; — besides they'll see us from the house. 

MORGAN : What if they do; ain't a man got a right to 
kiss his own wife? 

WIDOW B. : Yes, but it always looks kinder funny 
'fore others. {Xing up over R to bench R C.) We could 
have put in the whole day sparkin' if you hadn't been in 
such a hurry to drag me over here. 

MORGAN : I didn't drag ye over, but ye was bound to 
come along. Darter didn't send for you; she sent for me. 

WIDOAV B. : {Seating herself on bench up R C.) Do 
ye s'pose I'm goin'to start ye in by lettin' ye keep things 
from me? But that's just like a man; blame your wife for 
everything; that's just the way my fust husband used to do. 

MORGAN: {Coming down to R.) I ain't a bit sur- 
prised to hear thatj he had the reputation of being pretty 
mean. 

WIDOW B. : Ye ought to be ashamed of yourself talkin' 
that way about the dead. 

MORGAN: {Knocking at door R 2 E.) Ye can't like 
folks any better just because they happen to be dead. 

Enter Alice Morgan, R2 E. 

ALICE : Here you are at last, father. I've been wait- 
ing for you, but I thought you'd never come. ( Throws her- 
self in Morgan's arms.) 

IVEORGAN : Nov/ that I'm here, darter, what d'ye want? 

ALICE: To advise me what to do; I'm in such trouble. 

MORGAN: {As Widow B. rises.) What's wrong! 



70 

What's the matter? 

ALICE: I fear that Burr cares nothing for me; he's in 
love with Mrs. Bleunerhassett. 

MOliGAN : {U with Alice.) Just as I told you all the 
time, gal; this feller's begun to fool ye even before you're 
married. 

WIDOW B. : It's a heap better to have a man fool ye 
before instead of after marriage. 

ALICE: {Xing L to (J.) There's small consolation to 
be gotten out of warmed over affections. 

WIDOW B. : I'd rather have 'em wormed over than 
have 'em turned clean cold. {Coniing clown to R C.) 

ALICE : Yet I more than half believe that Burr took 
the brunt of things on himself to save the woman. 

WIDOW B. : That's my way of lookin' at it, too. 

MORGAN : What d'ye want to put all the blame on her 
for? 

WIDOW B. : 'Cause I never did trust her nohow. 

MORGAN : That's the fust time I hard it. 

WIDOW B.: I couldn't say much about it till I was 
sure. 

MORGAN: It don't make no difference; it turned out 
just the same either way. 

WIDOW B. : I'm sorry I wasn't here when it hap- 
pened; it's pretty liard to get at things second hand. 

MORGAN: {Xing L to Alice C.) At any rate, darter, 
T hope you see now that your old paw was right, and that 
Burr ain't the man for you. 

ALICE: But it's more than likely he allowed Mrs. 
Blennerhassett to put the blame on him, and is more 
sinned against than sinning in this affair. {Xes L to L.) 

MORGAN: Arter his goings on you shan't have him; 
I'm goin' to run this thing now to suit myself. 

WIDOW B. : And you're a goin' to put your foot in it 
again 'fore you get through. 

MORGAN: If I do it's my foot. At any rate, she's 
goin' to give this feller up and come back home and live 
with us. {Xing L to L C.) Ain't ye, darter? 

WIDOW B.: {Xing L to G.) George Morgan! Have 
ye gone clean crazy! You know we'd never get on to- 
gether, {To Alice.) It was all along of thinking you were 
going to get married, miss, that I took your paw, for I al- 



71 

ways said I'd never move into his house till you moved out. 

MORGAN : (L C.) Why not? There's plenty of room 
for us all. 

WIDOW B. : I don't believe you could build a house 
large enough to hold both of us. 

MORGAN: Ye might get along better arter ye saw 
more of one another. 

WIDOW B. : As long as ye got yer mind set on it I'll 
try and do my part, 

ALICE : (With spirit.) I guess my father's house is as 
much mine as it is yours. 

MORGAN: {With resignation.) Perhaps arter all, 
darter, you'd better stick to Burr. 

ALICE: {Sobbing.) You just want me married off so 
you can ge trid of me. 

MORGAN: {Xing L to Alice L.) Ye know better'n 
that, my gal, but I'm most afraid you two'd never get on 
together. 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

MRS. BLEN: {At top of steps R 2 E.) You'd better 
seek a more secluded spot for the further discussion of your 
family affairs, for walls have ears when the windows are 
open. 

MORGAN: {Xing R to L C.) As far as that goes, 
mum, the whole town'll know soon enough that my gal here 
is goin' to break off with Burr, because she thinks he likes 
you pretty well. 

MRS. BLEN: {Coming down steps and standing R.) 
She does me too much honor, I assure you, sir; but leave 
her with me for a bit, and I'll engage to convince her to the 
contrary. 

ALICE: (L.) I'm fairly well convinced of that al- 
ready. 

MORGAN: {To Widoiv B.) Come on home, mum; 
we'll leave 'em together. {Goes up.) 

WIDOW B. : No, wait. {Aside to Morgan, who stands 
up L C.) I want to get at the rights of it myself, so I can 
tell folks just how it all was. (To Mrs. Blen.) I feel kinder 
played out, and think I'll rest a bit 'fore I start for home. 

MRS. BLEN: Go in and have a glass of wine; it might 
refresh you. 



72 

WIDOW B. : {Xing R.) Thank'ee, mum, I don't mind 
if I do. 

MOKGAN : {Xing over R towards the house.) I ain't 
got no excuse, but I'll join ye just to be sociable. 

MliS. BLEN : Mr. liurr will do the honors in my ab- 
sence, but I'll be in presently. 

MORGAN : Don't be in no hurry, mum ; I know where 
the sideboard is. 

Exeunt Morgan, Widoto Brown, R2 E. 

MRS. BLEN : {Xing over LtoRC.) I hope, my dear, 
you don't intend to quarrel with me over Burr, for I've 
had quite enough of his society, and will leave you in un- 
disputed possession of him. 

ALICE: {Xing R to G.) Yet you tried hard enough 
to have him all to yourself. 

MRS. BLEN : I didn't try at all ; he fairly threw him- 
self at me, and I could hardly get rid of the man. 

ALICE: I differ with you there; in my opinion you 
were willing enough to receive his attentions, and meet 
him even more than half way. 

MRS. BLEN: I might remind you that I'm still mis- 
tress here, but rather than stay to be insulted I'll leave 
you in possessitm of the field. {Xing R to R.) 

ALICE : Its unpleasant I know to hear the truth about 
oneself. 

MRS. BLEN: {R.) Then hear the plain truth from 
me, and admit you're a little piqued because Burr had the 
bad taste to prefer another woman to yourself. 

ALICE: I fear you must clear Mr. Burr of that 
charge; I'll not allow you to sacrifice him, in order to save 
yourself. 

MRS. BLEN : You believe then that, I encouraged this 
man's attentions, and when our affair was found out put 
the blame on him. 

ALICE : The theory seems plausible enough to me. 

MRS. BLEN : Then once for all so long as I've explain- 
ed matters to the satisfaction of my husband I dcm't recog- 
nize your right to question me. {Makes as if to go.) 

ALICE : (Xing RtoRG.) You may be able to deceive 
a credulous old man, only too readv to believe you're tell- 
ing him the truth, but you forget that you had to reckon 



73 

with me. 

MRS. BLEN : Take my advice and don't pry into things 
too closely, also you'll lose all remaining confidence in the 
man youve picked out for a husband. 

ALICE : Do you suppose I'd marry Burr if I thought 
that at the very time he was pretending love for me he 
was devoting himself to you? 

MRS. BLEN: I'm sure I don't know; but at least do 
me the credit to admit that I tried in vain to warn you 
against him before things had gone too far. 

ALICE : Or possibly because no matter how you feel 
toward him now, you had an interest in him at that time 
yourself. 

MRS. BLEN: To the contrary it was an effort to be 
barely civil, for I've positively hated him ever since he be- 
gan on me with his love making. {Xes over L to C.) 

ALICE : It seems to me you could have easily put a 
stop to it by telling your husband. 

MRS. BLEN : I knew if I did he would withdraw his 
support from the expedition which on Blennerhassett's 
account I very much wanted to go through. Besides I con- 
sidered I was perfectly able to take care of myself and re- 
sist the fascinations even of a Mr. Burr. 

ALICE : A likely story enough but I don't believe a 
word of it. 

MRS. BLEN: Then ask Burr yourself my dear and be 
convinced of the truth. {Xing L to L C.) 

ALICE: {Xiiiff L to C.) I think you rely on his gen- 
erosity to make himself out the scapegoat, stand by your 
story and help you lie out of it. But I too have some 
claim on his consideration and believe that when I tell him 
I'll give liim up if it turns out he was altogether to blame 
in this affair, I'll get at the truth of it all. 

MRS. BLEN: (Xinfj R to Alice C.) I beg of you not 
to throw him over in a fit of anger that may bring on you 
a life long regret! 

ALICE: (Xing R to R C.) Do you think I'd regret 
giving him up if I learned that when he offered me his 
hand, he'd already given you his heart? 



74 



Enter Burr, R 1 E. 



BURR: {R.) I'm sent out to say the happy couple 
are waiting for you both to drink to their good health. 

ALICE: {To Burr going; Xing R.) And after that 
we'll Gome to an explanation concerning the charges this 
lady has brought against you. 

MRS. BLEN: But first grant me an interview with 
Mr. Burr. 

ALICE : I've no objections, and you may bring all your 
persuasive powers to ibear to induce him to indorse your 
story. 

Exit Alice Morgan, R 2 E. 

BURR: Our little comedy is about played, and the 
love of the only woman I ever really cared for will soon 
be but a memory. ( Goes up R 0. ) 

MRS. BLEN : Not so; there's a way out of it for you, 
Burr. 

BURR: There's but one way out of it, for unless I 
take the brunt of this affair on myself your husband will 
divorce you. {Seats himself on, bench up R C.) 

MRS. BLEN : And it will be hard — oh, so hard to give 
him up now that I've learned to appreciate him at his true 
worth. 

BURR: Ah, Margaret, there are many things in life 
we set no value on till they're taken from us. But I'll 
engage that you come out of this with flying colors, and 
have your husband begging forgiveness for having ever 
wronged you with his suspicions, and when you've made it 
up with him God bless and prosper and speed you, Maggie, 
forever and a day. 

MRS. BLEN: No, for though I've been trying all 
along to blind myself to my duty, my mind is made up at 
last, and I'll do the only honorable thing I can, in partial 
expiation of my folly. 

BURR: {Rising.) What do you mean to do? 

MRS. BLEN: Own to the truth. Tell Alice Morgan 
that you never cared for me! own to my husband the in- 
fatuation was on my side, not on yours, and take the pun- 
ishment I deserve. {Xes R to R.) 

BURR: {Coining doion to Mrs. BJen R.) Though I 



75 

thank you fur your generosity I'll not allow you to make 
a needless sacrifice to save me. 

MRS. BLEN : Have you no thought of Alice? 

BURR : Yes, and its because of my great love for her 
that I must give her up. [Xes over L to (J.) 'tis the only 
thing for a bankrupt dishonored man to do. 

MRS. BLEN: {Xing L to R C.) No, no! There's a 
brighter future in store for you than that, Burr: You'll 
marry her, bid good bye to dreams of conquest and ambi- 
tion, and settle down to life loug peace and happiness in 
some place far away from here. 

BURR : And where would I find that home think you? 
Instead of my Mexican air castle a prison now stares me 
in the face. At best I've but a few hours start of the law, 
and have barely enough money to reach some sea port and 
sail for Europe. I'll not ask the woman I love to share the 
fate of a poverty stricken exile — a fugitive from justice 
with a price on his head — a man without a country, brok- 
en alike in purse and reputation. 

MRS. BLEN : But with we women the surest way to 
our hearts is through our sympathies, and Alice Morgan 
would give you up with all the more regret now that for- 
tune frowns upon you. 

BURR : I'll put the matter before her in such a light 
that she'll think me little worthy of her sympathy. 

Enter Blennerhassett, L. U. E. 

BLEN : {Up L, to Bun:) Still here, sir? 

BURR: {Going up to L C.) Yes; I didn't wish to 
leave till I had made an effort to explain matters to you. 

BLEN : That is quite unnecessary ; my wife's good 
name needs no defense from Aaron Burr. 

BURR : True enough; therefore spare Mrs. Blennerhas- 
sett, and put the blame for this affair on me, 

MRS. BLEN : Not altogether husband; for I too am at 
fault. 

BLEN : Indeed not. I'm assured of your innocence. 
{Coming down to Mrs. BJen, R C.) Though I feared at 
one time, Margaret, you no longer cared for me, I see now 
that it was Burr's shadow that came between us, and in 
your ambition to promote my interests you fought it out 
with him alone. {Puts arm about Mrs. Bleu.) 



76 

MBS. BLEN : Then you'll forgive me? 

BLEN : 'Tis for me to beg forgiveness for having ever 
doubted you, and once rid of our unwelcome guest well 
settle down here to our old quiet life again. 

BUKR: Then as things ai'e so well understood be- 
tween you there is no need for my remaining longer, so 
after a word or two with Mistress Morgan I leave this 
place for good and all. {Coming down to L C.) 

BLEN: {Xing L to C.) You'll see her out here then, 
for with my consent you'll never set foot in my house 
again. 

MRS. BLEN : Husband, I beg of your consider — 

BLEN: {Interrupting.) Aaron Burr merits no con- 
sideration from me. ( To Burr. ) A false friend who wins 
the confidence of an old man little versed in the ways of 
the world, and repays his hospitality by making love to 
his wife. Like the serpent in the garden you came un- 
bidden, but happily failed to sow the seeds of discord in 
this peaceful Eden. {Going; Xing R.) Come, Margaret, 
we'll send the lady out to Burr, that he may have no 
further excuse for delaying his departure. 

BURR: {Xing L; seating himself R of table). Then 
I'll await her here. 

Enter Morgan^ Widow Brown, R 2 E. {Latter somewhat 
flushed and disheveled in appearance) . 

MORGAN: {R with Blen.) Hello squire! Where ye' 
been all this time? 

BLEN: I've just finished unloading my stores from 
that cursed boat of Burr's, and now that I've taken out 
what I've bought and paid for, there isn't a barrel of flour 
or a side of bacon left. 

MORGAN: As long as you leave the whiskey behind 
the men won't grumble. 

WIDOW B. : {Going np.) Come on, Morgan; can't 
ye' see je* ain't wanted here. 

MRS. BLEN: And why not, pray? 

WIDOW B.: {Vp C.) Wal it strikes me ye' can't be 
so powerful anxious to have us stay, seein' ye' left us all 
alone. 

MRS. BLEN: I must apologize for my rudeness, but 



77 

after whats happened I fear you'll find us all but poor 
compan}^ just now. 

WIDOW B. : What's the matter, mum ; ain't nobody 
sick, I hope? 

MES. BLEN : No. 

WIDOW B. : Nothin' we can do for ye'? 

MRS. BLEN: Thank you, no; I assure you it is en- 
tirely a family affair. 

WIDOW B. : {VomiMj down to Mrs. Blen R G.) Tell 
me all about it, then I can tell everybody just how it was. 

MRS. BLEN: [Going; Xing R, followed by Blen.) I 
prefer to keep my own counsel, and you'd very much 
oblige me by doing the same as far as it relates to the dis- 
cussion of my private affairs. (To Blen.) Come, hus- 
band, we'll send Alice out to Mr. Burr. 

Exeunt Blennerliassett, Mrs. Blennerliassett, R 2 E. 

WIDOW B. : Arter that woman talking to me like that 
I'll never set foot in her house again. 

MORGAN: {Xing L to Widow B., R G.) Ye' had no 
business to jump at her fust thing the way ye' did. 

WIDOW B. : I only wanted to find out if that old fool 
Blennerhassett was goin' to leave her or not. 

MORGAN : And in course you wanted to be the first 
to know about it. 

WIDOW B. : The only way to stop folks guessin' is to 
let 'em know the facts. But I thought you'd stand by me 
the fust few days arter we was married anyway. 

MORGAN: How can I when you're in the Avrong? 

WIDOW B. : Anybody can stand by ye' when you're 
in the right; but folks as care for ye' ought to stand by 
ye' when you're in the wrong. 

Enter Alice Morgan, R 2 E. 

ALICE: {Standing R, to Morgan, who stands R G 
with Widow B.) Why, father! I thought you'd gone. 

WIDOW B. : I dare say ye' hoped we had. 

ALICE : Well, to be candid, home seemed the best place 
for you, for from the way you've been jumping from one 
subject to another I thought the wine you drank had gone 
to your head. 



78 

WIDOW B. : {Xing L to C.) Ain't that just like a 
darter-in-law. 

MORGAN : Besides ye' onl}^ had three glasses. 

WIDOW B. : That's more'n I ever drank before since 
the day I was born ; but ye' don't get married every day. 

MORGAN :(i2 C.) I'll see to it that it don't happen 
again. 

WIDOW B. : {€.) Ye' can't tell about that, PaAV, for 
life is mighty uncertain. Now who'd thought Id outlived 
a big strong man like my fust husband? 

MORGAN: Come on, marm; we'd better be goin'. 
{Goes up R C.) 

WIDOW B. : (0.) I want to tell Alice that she's wel- 
come to come back and make her home with us whenever 
she wants to. 

ALICE : (Xing L to R C.) You've told me that twice 
already. 

WIDOW B. : {As Morgan Xes over up L to Burr L; 
Burr rises). And I mean it, too, gal, so you mustn't think 
any more about what I said a while ago. I know we'd get 
on all right, though for the matter of that no two people 
agree all the time. Even my fust husband and I used to 
have our fallings out, though I must say he was generally 
to blame. But he couldn't help it; he got his temper from 
his grandmother, who was 92 years old when she died, and 
never lost a tooth in her life, though if there's anything 
wuss than toothache unless it be the yaller jaundice I'd 
like to know it. 

MORGAN : Then recollect, darter, if you make up yer 
mind to come home the latch string's out for ye'. 

WIDOW B.: (Xing R to Alice R C.) If I was you 
I'd stick to Burr for I dare say you'd rather be miserable 
with him than happy with some other feller. Now there 
was that Jones gal; her paw wouldn't let her have the fel- 
ler she wanted, so she up and run off with the hired man. 
But the old man brought it all on himself, for he was 
always a complainin' 'bout one thing or another, thousrh I 
reckon I oughtn't to speak unkind of the dead, though it 
don't make no difference to theui what ye' say 'bout 'em. 
But I don't s'pose we ought to sneak unkind of the living 
either, so it makes it prettv hard if ye' can't talk about 
your neighbors, alive or dead. 



79 

BURK: {As tliouyh continuing a conversation with 
Morgan.) Good bye, sir, and thank you for your good 
wishes. {They shake hands.) 

MORGAN : But if things don't turn out right with ye', 
though my darter's always welcome back, don't you expect 
no help from me. 

BURR: Make yourself easy on that score, sir; I'll not 
try to borrow your money. 

MORGAN: {Going up L; to Widow B.) Come on, 
marm. 

WIDOW B. : All right ! Just as ye' say, Paw. If yer 
goin', darter, good bye. {Kisses Alice good hye, and Xes 
L to Burr, who Xes R to meet her R C. ) Good luck to ye, 
son-in-law. Take good care of Alice, for she's the best gal 
I ever come across, and I know she'll make yer a good wife. 
{Kisses Burr. Morgan has meanwhile come down, takes 
Widow B hy the arm and leads her up L.) Good bye 
folks! Ye' must stop over and make up a nice long visit 
the fust time ye' come this way. 

Exeunt Col. Morgan, Widow Brown, L. U. E. 

ALICE : {Xing L to C.) I'll give you a chance to clear 
yourself of the charges Mrs. Blennerhassett brings against 
you. 

BURR: Do you not hold with the lady that I forced 
myself upon her? 

ALICE : No ; I think she put the blame on you to save 
herself, and counts on you to stand by her. 

BURR : If half the women in the world were to pass 
judgment on the other half I'd tremble for the reputation 
of the sex. 

ALICE : And half the men would lie so to help the 
other half out, that I fear we women Avould never get at 
the truth about them. 

BURR: But in this case in justice to all concerned I 
must own to the truth, and ask your pardon for having 
offered myself to you out of pretended indifference to Mrs. 
Blennerhassett, for having rejected my suit. 

ALICE: So this woman has coaxed you into shielding 
her, even though you forfeit my love ! 

BURR: I assure you I'm shielding no one. Though 
for the matter of tliis its just as well we part on one pre- 



80 

text as another, for tlie time is at hand when you'd have 
given me up, even had I proved worthy of you. 

ALICE: And why? 

BURK: {Xing R to Alice C.) Because of my altered 
prospects, and the change for the worse in my worldly af- 
fairs. When I asked you to be my wife I thought to make 
you the consort of an Emperor, and lay power, — riches, — 
honors at your feet for a wedding gift. But I awoke from 
my dream of ambition to find myself a ruined man, and 
a traitor to my country. So rather than ask you to share 
my uncertain lot I'll take m^'self out of your life as if I'd 
never come into it, to bring on you more of pain than of 
pleasure. 

ALICE : No true woman would refuse to share in the 
adversity of the man she loves ; and no true man but would 
strive the harder to prove himself worthy of her. Since 
you gave Mrs. Blennerhassett such love as your selfish na- 
ture was capable of giving, tell me, Aaron Burr, if you 
never told the truth before, and never expect to again, why 
did you ask me to be your wife? 

BURR : Because I needed money, — much money, — to 
carry out my plans in the southwest, and hoped once we 
were married that your father would advance it; — but 
you heard what he said to me but a moment ago. 

ALICE : Then it Avas my father's money, not me, you 
wanted, and you're only a contemptible fortune hunter 
after all. 

BURR : Put it that way if you will, for in the present 
state of my fortunes hearts can ne'er be trumps in the 
game I play with destiny. 

ALICE: {Xing L to L.) However humiliating all 
this may be to my ownself love, the joy with which I give 
you up more than makes amends, for I despise you now 
that I see you as you are. 

BURR : Dare I hope you'll forgive me? 

ALICE : Yes, but I can never forgive myself for hav- 
ing in my blind infatuation taken up with such a man as 
Tou! 



81 
Enter Daviess, Monongahela Pete, B 2 E. 

DAVIESS: (Standing R icith Pete, to Burr.) How 
much longer are you going to keep me prisoner here? 

BURR: (C.) Until I get safe away, so by the time 
you give the alarm 111 be out of your reach. Quite natur- 
ally I prefer to get away, rather than stay here and be 
hanged. 

ALICE: (Xing R to L C.) But Joe has passed his 
word not to leave the island without your permission. 

DAVIESS : Then to make sure I'd keep my word he 
set this fellow to watch me. 

BURR : I only furnished the moral force to help you 
resist temptation. However, since you're tired of your 
guard of honor we'll dispense with it. (To Pete, Xing R 
to R C.) Pete, leave Master Daviess with me and I'll be 
responsible for him. 

PETE: (Going up R.) All right, Cap'; just as you 
say. 

DAVIESS: What have you done with Graham? 

BURR : Oh, I take him with me, and will keep him 
prisoner on the boat till we reach New Orleans, and I'm 
safe aboard some vessel bound for Europe. I'll take no 
chances on Graham hindering my escape. 

Exit Monongahela Pete, R U E. 

DAVIESS : After all now that you've played the game 
and lost, it makes little difference whether you get safe 
away or not. 

BURR : Precisely from your point of view, for as Dis- 
trict Attorney you only represent the people of Kentucky. 
But Graham looks for a reward if he makes me a pris- 
oner, and you know a man is more in earnest when he is 
working for himself, than when he is working for others. 

DAVIESS : (Xing L to Alice L C.) I presume at any 
rate you'll allow me to take my leave of this lady? 

BURR : That is for me to do, for Mistress Alice and I 
part company here and now, for good and all. 

DAVIESS: You've given him up then, Alice? 

ALICE: Yes, and am only sorry I didn't heed the ad- 
vice of my friends when they first warned me against him. 

DAVIESS: (Meeting Alice L C.) Then why not go 



82 

on as we were before this man came between us; will you 
not give me leave to try and win you back again? 

BURE: Trust to time for that, sir; fortunate is the 
man who wins Alice Morgan, and if she looks on your suit 
with favor may you prove worthy of her, 

DAVIESS: And in return let me hope providing 
you're not caught and hanged before you get out of the 
country, that you'll live to be a Marshall of France under 
Napoleon. 

ALICE : Enough of these fulsome speeches which 
neither of you mean. {To Daviess.) Come, sir, we'll walk 
about the grounds till Burr leaves, and then you can take 
me back home to my father. {Xes L with Daviess.) 

BURR: {Xing L to C.) Are you going without a word 
of good bye to me? 

ALICE: {R with Daviess.) I can well spare your 
good byes. Go your way, sir, and may we never meet 
again, else I'd blush to own that I'd ever even called you 
friend. 

Exeunt Alice, Daviess, R 2 E. 

{A momentary pause.) 

Enter Mrs. Blennerhassett, R 2 E. 

{Unseen by Burr, Mrs. Blennerhassett stands at door 
R 2 E, as Burr goes up and out, as the curtain slowly 
falls.) 

Exit Burr, L. V. E. 

END OF PLAY. 



LEAp'09 



Baron Burr 



H pla^ In jfour Hcts. 



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